Less quick returns--greater well-being.

The aim of this study was to design ergonomically improved shift schedules for nurses in primary health care shift work in order to enhance their health and well-being. The main change made was the reduction of quick returns (i.e., no more morning shifts immediately after an evening shift) in order to ensure more recovery time between work shifts. Six municipal hospital units participated in the intervention. Our aim was to maintain or improve the well-being and work ability of aged workers. The subjects (n=75) were divided into three age groups: 20-40, 41-52, and 53-62 yr. The introduction of more recovery time between evening and morning shifts significantly improved the subjects' sleep and alertness, well-being at work, perceived health, and leisure-time activities independently of their age. The effect on social and family life was also positive. Working in shifts was the most disruptive for the youngest group of nurses. The Work Ability Index score depended on the age group: it was lowest among the oldest age group, and did not change during the intervention. Ergonomic working time arrangements show positive effects on the well-being of health care workers of all ages.