NIOSH Training for Nurses on Shift Work and Long Work Hours

Warning Signs

“I got a speeding ticket one time going home [from work]. Didn’t realize I was going 55 miles per hour in a 25… I felt very alarmed… I really could’ve hurt someone, or myself.”
-Quote from a nurse who rotates to night shift

Recognize warning signs of drowsy driving

• Difficulty focusing, frequent blinking, or heavy eyelids
• Daydreaming; wandering/disconnected thoughts
• Trouble remembering the last few miles driven; missing exits or traffic signs
• Yawning repeatedly or rubbing your eyes
• Trouble keeping your head up
• Drifting from your lane, tailgating, or hitting a shoulder rumble strip
• Feeling restless and irritable