Challenges faced by nurses on night duty at Lubaga hospital, Kampala district. A descriptive cross-sectional study.
Keywords:
Challenges,, Nurses on night duty, Lubaga hospitalAbstract
Background: The aim of this study is to assess the physical, psychological, and social challenges faced by nurses on night duty at Lubaga Hospital, Kampala District.
Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional study design using quantitative methods was employed. The study targeted nurses working night shifts at Lubaga Hospital. A total of 30 respondents were selected through simple random sampling. Data were collected using semi-structured questionnaires, coded, and analysed using SPSS version 16 and Microsoft Excel. Descriptive statistics including frequencies and percentages were used, and results were presented in tables and figures.
Results: Majority of the respondents 14 (47%) held a Diploma in Nursing, and 21 (70%) were female. Physical fatigue was a major concern, with 11 (36%) experiencing generalized fatigue, and 22 (73%) reporting that night duty negatively affected their physical health. Psychologically, 12 (40%) suffered anxiety, 8 (27%) experienced depression, and 15 (50%) felt emotionally drained. Sleep disturbances affected 22 (73%) of respondents, while 18 (60%) felt socially isolated. Socially, 14 (47%) missed important family events, and 20 (67%) admitted that night duty interfered with maintaining relationships. Most nurses recommended counselling services 14 (47%), flexible shifts 12 (40%), and better staffing 8 (27%) as potential interventions.
Conclusion: The study established that night duty significantly affects nurses’ physical health, psychological well-being, and social life at Lubaga Hospital. Fatigue, sleep disruption, anxiety, and social isolation were the most prevalent challenges.
Recommendations: The study recommends improved staffing levels to reduce workload, establishment of rest facilities, provision of mental health support services, and implementation of flexible or rotational shift schedules to enhance nurses’ well-being and work performance. Hospital administrators and nursing leaders should prioritize occupational health and support systems for night duty nurses to prevent burnout, enhance job satisfaction, and ensure quality patient care.
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