Impact of 12‐hr shifts in general hospitals: Study conducted in two intensive care units

AIM: To evaluate the impact of 12‐hr shifts on health status, working conditions and satisfaction among nurses and healthcare auxiliaries in medical and surgical intensive care units in a general hospital. DESIGN: This study was a descriptive and prospective questionnaire study of personnel involved in the organization of 12‐hr shifts. METHODS: The EVREST questionnaire was used, with the addition of two questions on respondents' health status and five questions on their job satisfaction. The study consisted of a first phase immediately before work was organized in 12‐hr shifts and a second within 7–9 months of application of this organization. RESULTS: Positive effects were found among day nurses including decreased periods of pressure during the working day and improved work–life balance. Conversely, night nurses, who are not in favour of 12‐hr shifts, reported dissatisfaction caused by a deterioration both in working conditions and in work–life balance.