Naps for Shift Work

(EONN Trial)

This trial aims to determine how different nap lengths during night shifts affect blood pressure and alertness. It focuses on shift workers in public safety and healthcare who often experience sleep disruptions and face higher cardiovascular risks. By testing five different nap durations, researchers aim to identify which one best improves blood pressure and performance after waking. The trial suits active shift workers in Western Pennsylvania who do not take heart medications and do not have sleep disorders like sleep apnea. Results could help night shift workers and employers decide on effective nap strategies, known as "Operational Naps." As an unphased trial, this study allows participants to contribute to valuable research that could enhance workplace health and safety.

If you are currently taking medication for cardiovascular disease, you cannot participate in this trial.

In a previous study, researchers found that naps during the night shift reduce sleepiness and increase alertness. Another study showed that while individuals might feel slightly groggy immediately after waking, naps decrease tiredness and improve performance over time.

Research suggests that longer naps might lower blood pressure, while shorter naps could boost performance immediately after waking. Most studies agree that naps are generally safe and well-tolerated by night shift workers, even helping to reduce anxiety and burnout, thus aiding recovery between shifts.

Researchers are excited about operational naps for shift work because they offer a natural, non-pharmaceutical approach to combating fatigue. Unlike traditional methods such as caffeine or stimulants, naps provide restorative rest without potential side effects. Additionally, by experimenting with different nap timings and orders, this approach aims to optimize alertness and performance, which could lead to more personalized fatigue management strategies for shift workers.

Research shows that taking naps during night shifts can help workers stay alert and perform better. In this trial, participants will experience different nap interventions. Studies indicate that planned naps can reduce tiredness and improve task performance. One study suggested that longer naps might help lower blood pressure, benefiting heart health. Another study found that shorter naps can boost performance immediately after waking. Overall, naps during night shifts seem to reduce fatigue and enhance work effectiveness.¹²³⁴⁶