All obstetrician-gynecologists should evaluate the effects that fatigue may have on their ability to care for patients and adjust their workloads, work hours, and time commitments when feasible to avoid fatigue when caring for patients, according to The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). In its ongoing commitment to patient safety, ACOG released the new opinion today in the February issue of Obstetrics & Gynecology. Although there are few published studies on the effects of fatigue on physicians, there is increasing awareness that fatigue, even partial sleep deprivation, impairs performance. More research on the effects of fatigue on practicing ob-gyns is needed before specific, evidence-based national guidelines can be developed to improve patient safety and care. In the interim, ACOG believes it is prudent for physicians to consider adapting, when feasible, the sleep guidelines from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration:
- Structure work to take advantage of circadian influences
- Recognize that the drive to sleep is very strong between 2 am and 9 am, and especially between 3 am and 5 am. Avoid unnecessary work during these times
- Apply good sleep habits which includes a quiet, dark room with adequate ventilation and a comfortable temperature
- After a night shift, go immediately to sleep to maximize sleep length
- Arrange for backup during the time that sleep impairment is likely
- Recognize behavioral changes, such as irritability, that may indicate dangerous levels of fatigue
- Use naps strategically
Please click on the link below to read the ACOG press release:
http://www.acog.org/from_home/publications/press_releases/nr02-01-08-3.cfm
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