Shift Work: Managing the Challenges of Disrupted Sleep Patterns and Extended Duty Hours

Law enforcement officers frequently work either the day shift or night shift for weeks at a time. If officers working nights keep the same sleep-wake patterns on days off as they do on work nights, sleep will be more restful and efficient. Officers working nights may change their hour on off-duty days to take advantage of social opportunities or outdoor activities during day time. Required court appearances, mandatory training, or administrative tasks can also disrupt optimal sleep-wake cycles. These alterations may result in sleep difficulties and decreased performance.

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