Clinical characteristics of sleep disorders, in workers with rotating shifts of the emergency service of the Hospital Complex Doctor Arnulfo Arias Madrid, 2023

Abstract

Introduction: shift work is a form of work organization that involves irregular schedules, including night shifts, negatively affecting sleep and health. This descriptive observational study addresses the clinical characteristics of sleep disorders in healthcare workers in the Emergency Service of the Complex Hospital Doctor Arnulfo Arias Madrid in 2023.

Methods: a sample of 115 participants was used, obtained through surveys with the Epworth scale and questions on demographic and work variables.

Results: within the results obtained, it was observed that 28.57 % suffer from some sleep disorder, with the male sex being more affected with 71.4 % and according to profession, the most affected is that of specialist doctors represented by 42 % of the data evaluated, regarding the evaluation method of the scale applied for drowsiness (Epworth scale). A high prevalence of excessive daytime sleepiness (85.7 %) and disorders such as insomnia and obstructive sleep apnea is highlighted. Implications include increased risks of cardiovascular and metabolic diseases.

Discussion: despite the high prevalence of sleep disorders, only a small percentage report confirmed diagnoses. In addition, the relationship between comorbidities, rotating shifts and depressive symptoms is addressed. These findings not only contribute to local knowledge, but also point to the need for targeted interventions in the Emergency Department to improve staff health and well-being