Keywords

No-Shift-Lag, Circadian rhythms, Night shift, Intensive care unit

 

Authors

  1. La Pine, Mary P. NZRGON, BN, PG Cert. Arts (Nursing), Critical Care Certificate
  2. Malcomson, Fay N. NZRGON, Critical Care Certificate, Certified Flight Nurse
  3. Torrance, John M. MBBCh, FANZCA, FFICANZCA, BSc(Hons)
  4. Marsh, Nigel V. PhD, DipPsych(Clin)

Abstract

Night shift nurses are subject to shift lag or circadian dysrhythmia, which may result in physical and mental symptoms ranging from fatigue, irritability, depression, and apathy to gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, and sleep disorders. This study investigated the effect a homeopathic remedy No-Shift-Lag had on the night shift nurses in an intensive care unit. The study was a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover trial. The measures included an objective computer-based vigilance test and a series of subjective questionnaires.