G533(P) Time for a kitkat? An analysis of night shift break habits in junior doctors

Background/Introduction In the climate of increased patient safety awareness, the BMJ launched the 2019 ‘give us a break’ campaign urging doctors to take breaks to combat fatigue. A cross-sectional survey of junior doctors found poor break uptake with further studies showing that fatigue is associated with medical errors.1 2 Aim(s)/Objectives Establish whether night–shift doctors are taking breaks. Improve the percentage of doctors taking night–shift Methods Four PDSA cycles were developed including: Implementing break rota charts Raising awareness at the Junior Doctor Forum Implementing a Whatsapp group for the night team Raising awareness about the importance of breaks with posters Results Baseline data showed break uptake in 100% of Paediatric Nurse Practitioners (PNPs) whilst 0% of the general team doctors and 50% of specialty doctors were taking breaks. Post night-shift surveys identified common reasons. PDSA1 showed break uptake in 50% of doctors from both teams, and after interventions by PDSA3 all night team doctors were taking breaks. Discussion/Conclusion PDSA interventions were successful in increasing staff breaks, however sustainability of results in Junior Doctors will require a culture shift where doctors take personal responsibility for taking breaks. This is well- modelled by the PNPs who effectively arrange cross cover for breaks. A culture shift to improve patient safety overall can be aided by nominating a Junior Doctor break ‘Champion’. Encouraging break taking in staff on night shifts will not only increase morale and wellness in the workplace but also contribute to improved patient care. References Jackson E and Moreton A. Safety during night shifts: a cross-sectional survey of junior doctors’ preparation and practice: Table 1. BMJ Open 2013(9);3:e003567. Murray A, Pounder R, Mather H and Black D. Junior doctors’ shifts and sleep deprivation. BMJ 2005(7505);330:1404. West C. Association of Resident Fatigue and Distress With Perceived Medical Errors. JAMA 2009(12);302:1294.