Workplace Fatigue Among Oncology Nursing Personnel

Workplace fatigue is common among occupations that have prolonged work hours, rotating shifts, night-time work hours, inadequate time for rest during work, and insufficient time for recovery between shifts. Available evidence suggests that workplace fatigue poses a substantial threat to patient safety and contributes to worker injury and decreased vigilance. However, little is known about workplace fatigue among nursing personnel working in institutions dedicated solely to the care of patients with cancer. This study describes the scope and severity of workplace fatigue among nursing personnel working in the inpatient and ambulatory care divisions of a comprehensive cancer center.

At a Glance

• Oncology nursing personnel working in inpatient or ambulatory areas are vulnerable to workplace fatigue.
• Oncology nurses would benefit from monitoring their levels of workplace fatigue and engaging in self-care strategies to combat fatigue.
• A need exists for oncology nurses to work with their managers to overcome the problem of workplace fatigue.