Fatigue Management Education

Fatigue refers to mental or physical exhaustion that stops a person from being able to function normally. It is more than just feeling tired. Fatigue is caused by prolonged periods of physical and/or mental exertion without adequate time for rest and recovery.

The ACGME, and other accrediting bodies, have implemented requirements mandating programs to educate faculty and residents to recognize signs of fatigue and sleep deprivation.

The Signs

Repeated yawning and nodding off during conferences “Microsleeps”… the few seconds of sleep you don’t recognize occurred Loss of ability to do something quickly Increased tolerance for risk Passivity Inattention to details

Decreased cognitive functions Irritability Motor vehicle accidents / near misses Increased errors Impact on sleep process itself Sleep inertia (the confusion and dysfunction that occurs upon awakening from deep sleep)

What Can I Do? 

Develop healthy sleep habits Protect sleep times on your days off Nap 20-30mins every 12 hours Recognize you will be more prone to accidents

Avoid or be judicious regarding medications Pay particular attention with “hand-offs” For sleep inertia: Anticipate it - get out of bed, stand up, and turn on the lights  Review the app resources provided below

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________