SHM Converge Scientific Abstract ePoster Gallery-Why Do Nocturnists Quit?: A Mixed-Methods Assessment of Nocturnist Attrition

Pdf Summary

This mixed-methods study examined why nocturnists quit at a cancer hospital, where turnover had been high. The researchers surveyed 59 former nocturnists employed between 2013 and 2022 using an anonymous 28-item Likert survey, and offered optional interviews for more detail. They also compared responses from those who left before 2019 with those who left after 2019, when compensation and night staffing had both increased. In addition, staffing data were reviewed to assess turnover trends.<br /><br />Forty-one former nocturnists responded (69%). The main finding was that physical and mental hardship from working nights were the strongest reasons for leaving. Common themes from interviews included isolation, jet lag, weight gain, strain on partners and family life, and the emotional toll of night work. Some participants also described positive aspects of the role, such as enjoying the clinical focus of overnight care.<br /><br />In contrast, compensation and overall workload were less important contributors to attrition than expected. There was no significant difference in reasons for leaving before versus after staffing and salary increases, suggesting that raising pay alone may not solve retention problems. However, annual turnover still decreased from 50% to 27% after these changes.<br /><br />The authors conclude that nocturnist attrition is driven mainly by the physiologic, mental health, and social burdens of night work. They suggest retention strategies such as fewer shifts, shorter shifts, and stronger support for health and well-being to better offset the challenges of working overnight.

Asset Subtitle

Kathleen R. Atlas

Meta Tag

Author List Anjali v. Desai, Barbara Egan, Jamie Riches, Kathleen R. Atlas

Category Research

Concept Nocturnist Attrition

Concept Physiologic Factors

Concept Mental Health

Concept Workload

Concept Compensation

Distinguished Non-Finalist

Presenter Organization Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center

Presenting Author Kathleen R. Atlas

Track Other

Keywords

nocturnist attrition

night shift work

turnover

cancer hospital

physiologic burden

mental health

work-life balance

compensation

staffing changes

retention strategies

Nocturnist Attrition

Physiologic Factors

Mental Health

Workload

Compensation