Can a 24-Hour shift wreck a Doctor's body more than a night shift?

NCT ID NCT01874704

First seen Aug 05, 2026 · Last updated Aug 06, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This trial asks whether the length of a shift affects stress levels in emergency physicians. Doctors will work either a 24-hour shift or a 14-hour night shift, and researchers will measure stress biomarkers like heart rate variability and stress hormones. They will also track perceived stress, fatigue, sleep, and workload. The goal is to see if one type of shift is more stressful, which could inform better scheduling for doctors.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance
Comparison of two shift schedules: a 24-hour shift versus a 14-hour night shift
What this could lead to
If certain shifts cause more stress, hospitals could redesign schedules to reduce burnout and improve doctor well-being and patient safety.
What could go wrong
This is a small study in a specific group, so results may not apply broadly. Stress biomarkers can be influenced by many factors, making it hard to draw firm conclusions.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Emergencies

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • CHU Clermont-Ferrand

    Clermont-Ferrand, 63003, France