Risks posed by nurses’ working hours in the intensive care unit: a systematic review (23 October 2025)

Summary

Nurses in intensive care units often work long shifts, leading to significant physical and mental strain. This strain can negatively impact their well-being and the quality of care they provide to patients. The aim of this systematic review was to evaluate the associations between nurses’ working hours in intensive care units and outcomes related to risk identification, nurse well-being, patient safety, and institutional performance.

The review highlights the importance of addressing the risks associated with long working hours in intensive care units. The primary risks identified include nurse-focused issues such as the development of sleep disturbances and increased burnout, as well as patient-focused risks like medication errors. These risks, along with their frequency and impact, underscore the need for improved scheduling and working conditions to ensure patient safety and nurse well-being.