Navigating Shift Work and Workplace Well-Being: Social Work Insights from Emergency Healthcare Staff
Keywords:
Healthcare, Shiftwork, Social work, Staff, Wellbeing, WorkplaceAbstract
In healthcare, where every moment can mean the difference between life and death, the contribution and well-being of employees in casualty and emergency units are indispensable for providing prompt, life-saving care. Despite their critical role, the effects of shift work on their well-being, a core concern for social work in healthcare settings, remain underexplored. Social work emphasizes the importance of well-being and advocacy for equitable and supportive workplace environments. The present study investigates the impact of shift work on workplace well-being among employees in major hospitals across Kashmir, shedding light on an area that aligns with social work’s commitment to improving occupational health and advocating for sustainable work environments. The research employed a cross-sectional design to assess the effects of shift work on workplace well-being among personnel in the emergency units of selected hospitals. Utilizing the Perception of Effects of Shiftwork Questionnaire (PESQ), the study gathered data on the health and well-being of various groups working in casualty departments. It explored how the strains of shift work influence workplace well-being as a dependent variable, offering insights aligned with social work’s focus on systemic interventions and support mechanisms for at-risk groups. The findings highlight the unique challenges faced by emergency unit staff due to shift work, particularly its detrimental effects on their physical and mental well-being. These challenges are intricately linked to the broader themes of workplace equity, organizational support, and social justice — the key tenets of social work practice. This research underscores the need for targeted strategies to enhance the well-being of emergency staff, a priority that intersects with social work’s advocacy for healthier workplace environments and policies. Addressing these challenges not only supports the well-being of essential healthcare workers but also aligns with social work’s mission to improve systemic structures.
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