Night Shift Work and Its Association with Metabolic Syndrome Among Hospital Nurses

Abstract

This study aims to examine the association between night shift work and metabolic syndrome among hospital nurses by exploring underlying behavioral, physiological, and organizational factors. A qualitative approach was employed using a case study design with a phenomenological orientation, selected to capture in-depth lived experiences and contextual workplace dynamics influencing nurses’ health. The research was conducted in a tertiary-level urban hospital, chosen due to its intensive night shift system and diverse nursing workforce. A total of seventeen participants were involved, consisting of twelve nurse respondents and five key informants, selected purposively based on their direct experience and professional relevance to ensure data richness and credibility. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, observation, and document analysis, and analyzed thematically. The findings reveal that night shift work contributes to circadian rhythm disruption, increased occupational stress, and unhealthy lifestyle patterns, which collectively elevate the risk of metabolic syndrome. Organizational factors such as high job demands and limited control further exacerbate these risks. The study recommends the implementation of adaptive shift scheduling, workplace health promotion programs, and institutional support systems to mitigate adverse health outcomes among nurses.