From the Guidelines
Quick returns in sleep schedules should be minimized by ensuring at least 11-12 hours between work shifts, limiting the number of quick returns to no more than one per week per employee, and implementing forward-rotating shift patterns to reduce disruptions to the body's natural circadian rhythms. This approach is supported by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine's clinical practice guideline for the treatment of intrinsic circadian rhythm sleep-wake disorders, which emphasizes the importance of prescribed sleep-wake scheduling and strategic avoidance of light to promote sleep and wakefulness 1.
When creating schedules, it is essential to consider the impact of quick returns on sleep patterns and fatigue. The American Thoracic Society's statement on the importance of healthy sleep highlights the adverse effects of long work hours, shift work, and work-related travel on sleep duration and quality 1. By minimizing quick returns, organizations can promote better sleep quality, improved employee wellbeing, and enhanced workplace safety and productivity.
Key considerations for scheduling work hours with reduced rapid eye movement (REM) sleep returns include:
- Ensuring at least 11-12 hours between shifts whenever possible
- Limiting the number of quick returns to no more than one per week per employee
- Implementing forward-rotating shift patterns (morning to evening to night) to better align with the body's natural circadian rhythms
- Implementing longer recovery periods after night shifts and avoiding scheduling employees for more than 3-4 consecutive night shifts
- Considering the use of light therapy and strategic avoidance of light to promote sleep and wakefulness, as recommended by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine's clinical practice guideline 1.
By prioritizing these considerations, employers can reduce the negative impacts of quick returns on sleep patterns and fatigue, ultimately promoting a healthier and more productive workforce.
From the Research
Quick Returns in Sleep Schedule
Quick returns refer to the practice of scheduling work hours with reduced time between shifts, resulting in shorter periods of rest and recovery. In the context of sleep schedule, quick returns can have significant impacts on sleep quality, duration, and overall well-being.
Effects of Quick Returns on Sleep
- Quick returns have been associated with shortened sleep length, reduced sleep quality, and increased sleepiness 2, 3, 4, 5.
- A study found that quick returns were associated with 1 hour shorter sleep length and reduced subjective sleep quality compared to day-day transitions 3.
- Another study found that frequency of quick returns was a significant predictor of poor sleep quality, short sleeps, and exhaustion 4.
Impact on Work-Related Fatigue and Stress
- Quick returns have been linked to increased work-related fatigue and stress, particularly anxiety at bedtime and worktime sleepiness 3, 5.
- A study found that quick returns did not predict recovery after rest days, highlighting the importance of sufficient daily rest time in the work schedule 4.
Comparison with Other Shift Schedules
- Quick returns have been found to be more problematic than night work in terms of their impact on sleep, fatigue, and overall well-being 4, 6.
- A study compared sleep characteristics associated with quick returns to those associated with other common shift transitions and found that quick returns encumbered the most detriments, including short sleep duration and increased sleepiness 5.