1
|
Mahdavi N, Tapak L, Darvishi E, Doosti-Irani A, Shafiee Motlagh M. Unraveling the interplay between mental workload, occupational fatigue, physiological responses and cognitive performance in office workers. Sci Rep 2024; 14:17866. [PMID: 39090219 PMCID: PMC11294527 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-68889-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2024] [Accepted: 07/29/2024] [Indexed: 08/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Recently, cognitive demands in workplaces have surged significantly. This study explored the intricate relationship among mental workload (MWL), occupational fatigue, physiological responses, and cognitive performance in office workers by using collective semi-parametric models. One hundred office workers were selected from twenty offices involved in cognitive performance. MWL was assessed through the NASA Task Load Index (NASA-TLX), and occupational fatigue was measured using the Persian version of the Swedish Occupational Fatigue Inventory. Physiological responses, including respiratory rate, the electrical conductivity of the skin (ECS), Heart Rate (HR), and other heart-related parameters, were recorded from the participants during a work shift. Selective and Divided Attention tests were chosen to evaluate workers' cognitive function based on cognitive task analysis. The mean of MWL and occupational fatigue scores were 66.28 ± 11.76 and 1.62 ± 1.07, respectively. There was a significant moderate correlation between two dimensions, mental demand (0.429) and frustration (0.409), with functional fatigue. Also, Significant and, of course, nonlinear relationships were observed between MWL and HR (R2 = 0.44, P-value < 0.001) and ECS (R2 = 0.45, P-value < 0.001) and reaction time in selected (R2 = 0.34, P-value < 0.001) and divided test (R2 = 0.48, P-value < 0.001). Similarly, nonlinear relationships were observed between physiological responses and cognitive performance with fatigue among participants who had experienced higher levels of occupational fatigue. The MWL and fatigue seem to have a significant and non-linear effect on physiological parameters such as HR and ECS and cognitive parameters such as reaction time. Moreover, MWL can influence the dimension of functional fatigue of workers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Neda Mahdavi
- Department of Ergonomics, Occupational Health and Safety Research Center, School of Public Health, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
- Center of Excellence for Occupational Health, Occupational Health and Safety Research Center, School of Public Health, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, P.O. Box 65175-4171, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Leili Tapak
- Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health and Modeling of Noncommunicable Diseases Research Center, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Ebrahim Darvishi
- Department of Occupational Health Engineering, Faculty of Health, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, Sanandaj, Iran
- Environmental Health Research Center, Research Institute for Health Development, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, Sanandaj, Iran
| | - Amin Doosti-Irani
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Masoud Shafiee Motlagh
- Center of Excellence for Occupational Health, Occupational Health and Safety Research Center, School of Public Health, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, P.O. Box 65175-4171, Hamadan, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Hanzal S, Learmonth G, Thut G, Harvey M. Probing sustained attention and fatigue across the lifespan. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0292695. [PMID: 39018279 PMCID: PMC11253940 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0292695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 07/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Trait fatigues reflects tiredness that persists throughout a prolonged period, whereas state fatigue is a short-term reaction to intense or prolonged effort. We investigated the impact of sustained attention (using the SART) on both trait and state fatigue levels in the general population. An online version of the SART was undertaken by 115 participants, stratified across the whole adult lifespan. While pre-task trait fatigue was a strong indicator of the initial state fatigue levels, undergoing the task itself induced an increase in reported subjective state fatigue, and an accompanying reduction in subjective energy rating. Consistent with this finding, greater subjective state fatigue levels were associated with reduced accuracy. In addition, age was the best predictor of inter-participant accuracy (the older the participants, the greater the accuracy), and learning (i.e., task duration reducing reaction times). Moreover, a ceiling effect occurred where participants with higher trait fatigue did not experience greater state fatigue changes relative to those with low trait scores. In summary, we found improved accuracy in older adults, as well as a tight coupling between state fatigue and SART performance decline (in an online environment). The findings warrant further investigation into fatigue as a dynamic, task-dependent state and into SART performance as an objective measure and inducer of fatigue.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Simon Hanzal
- School of Psychology and Neuroscience University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Gemma Learmonth
- School of Psychology and Neuroscience University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
- Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling, United Kingdom
| | - Gregor Thut
- School of Psychology and Neuroscience University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Monika Harvey
- School of Psychology and Neuroscience University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Lofrano-Porto A, D’Isabel S, Smith DL. Developing a clinical-pathological framework of long COVID-related fatigue applied to public safety workers. Front Med (Lausanne) 2024; 11:1387499. [PMID: 39086937 PMCID: PMC11288841 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2024.1387499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2024] [Accepted: 07/03/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024] Open
Abstract
In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, millions worldwide are still struggling with persistent or recurring symptoms known as long COVID. Fatigue is one of the most prevalent symptoms associated with long COVID, and for many it can be debilitating. Understanding the potential pathological processes that link fatigue to long COVID is critical to better guide treatment. Challenges with diagnosis and treatment are reviewed, recognizing that post-COVID fatigue does not always present with corroborating clinical evidence, a situation that is frustrating for both patients and healthcare providers. Firefighters are a group of public safety workers who are particularly impacted by long COVID-related fatigue. Firefighters must be able to engage in strenuous physical activity and deal with demanding psychological situations, both of which may be difficult for those suffering from fatigue. Disruption in public safety worker health can potentially impact community welfare. This review creates a framework to explain the clinical-pathological features of fatigue resulting from long COVID, addresses diagnosis and treatment challenges, and explores the unique impact fatigue may pose for public safety workers and their organizations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Adriana Lofrano-Porto
- Molecular Pharmacology Laboratory, Health Sciences School, University of Brasilia, Brasilia, Brazil
- Endocrine Diseases Clinics, University Hospital of Brasilia, Brasilia, Brazil
| | - Susanne D’Isabel
- First Responder Health and Safety Laboratory, Department of Health and Human Physiological Sciences, Skidmore College, Saratoga Springs, NY, United States
| | - Denise L. Smith
- First Responder Health and Safety Laboratory, Department of Health and Human Physiological Sciences, Skidmore College, Saratoga Springs, NY, United States
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Alexandre F, Molinier V, Hognon L, Charbonnel L, Calvat A, Castanyer A, Henry T, Marcenac A, Jollive M, Vernet A, Oliver N, Heraud N. Time-Course of Changes in Multidimensional Fatigue and Functional Exercise Capacity and Their Associations during a Short Inpatient Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program. COPD 2023; 20:55-63. [PMID: 36655947 DOI: 10.1080/15412555.2022.2164261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
This study aimed to assess the time-course of changes in multidimensional fatigue and functional exercise capacity and their associations during an inpatient pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) program. Seventy COPD patients from three centres were enrolled for a four-week PR program and were evaluated before (T0) and at the end of each week (T1, T2, T3, and T4). Weekly change in multidimensional fatigue was assessed by the multidimensional inventory questionnaire (MFI-20) and functional exercise capacity by the 6-minute walking distance (6MWD). Reaction time (RT) and heart rate variability (HRV) were also assessed as complementary markers of fatigue. HRV did not change during the study (all p > 0.05). MFI-20 score and RT decreased during the first part of the program (p < 0.001) and levelled off at T2 (all p > 0.05 compared with each preceding time). While 6MWD improved by almost 70% during the first part of the PR, it continued to increase, albeit at a greatly reduced pace, between T2 and T4 (p < 0.05). In parallel, a negative association was found between MFI-20 score and 6MWD at each evaluation time (r ranged from 0.43 to 0.71), with a significantly stronger T3 correlation compared with the other time periods (all p < 0.05). The strengthening of the association between fatigue and functional exercise capacity at T3, which occurred concomitantly with the slowdown of functional exercise capacity improvement, is consistent with a role for fatigue in the limitation of performance changes during PR. The limitation of fatigue during PR is thus an interesting aspect to improve the magnitude of performance changes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- François Alexandre
- Direction de la recherche clinique et de l'innovation en Santé, Korian, Lodève, France
| | - Virginie Molinier
- Direction de la recherche clinique et de l'innovation en Santé, Korian, Lodève, France
| | - Louis Hognon
- Euromov Digital Health in Motion, University of Montpellier, IMT Mines Ales, Montpellier, France
| | | | | | | | - Thomas Henry
- Clinique du Souffle Les Clarines, Korian, Riom-ès-montagne, France
| | | | | | | | - Nicolas Oliver
- Direction de la recherche clinique et de l'innovation en Santé, Korian, Lodève, France.,Clinique du Souffle La Vallonie, Korian, Lodève, France
| | - Nelly Heraud
- Direction de la recherche clinique et de l'innovation en Santé, Korian, Lodève, France
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Li WC, Zhang J, Kearney P. Psychophysiological coherence training to moderate air traffic controllers' fatigue on rotating roster. RISK ANALYSIS : AN OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE SOCIETY FOR RISK ANALYSIS 2023; 43:391-404. [PMID: 35212002 DOI: 10.1111/risa.13899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2021] [Revised: 12/15/2021] [Accepted: 01/10/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The nature of the current rotating roster, providing 24-h air traffic services over five irregular shifts, leads to accumulated fatigue which impairs air traffic controllers' cognitive function and task performance. It is imperative to develop an effective fatigue risk management system to improve aviation safety based upon scientific approaches. Two empirical studies were conducted to address this issue. Study 1 investigated the mixed effect of circadian rhythm disorders and resource depletion on controllers' accumulated fatigue. Then, study 2 proposed a potential biofeedback solution of quick coherence technique which can mitigate air traffic controllers' (ATCOs') fatigue while on controller working position and improve ATCOs' mental/physical health. The current two-studies demonstrated a scientific approach to fatigue analysis and fatigue risk mitigation in the air traffic services domain. This research offers insights into the fluctuation of ATCO fatigue levels and the influence of a numbers of factors related to circadian rhythm and resource depletion impact on fatigue levels on study 1; and provides psychophysiological coherence training to increase ATCOs' fatigue resilience to mitigate negative impacts of fatigue on study 2. Based on these two studies, the authors recommended that an extra short break for air traffic controllers to permit practicing the quick coherence breathing technique for 5 min at the sixth working hour could substantially recharge cognitive resources and increase fatigue resilience. Application: Present studies highlight an effective fatigue intervention based on objective biofeedback to moderate controllers' accumulated fatigue as a result of rotating shift work. Accordingly, air navigation services providers and regulators can develop fatigue risk management systems based on scientific approaches to improve aviation safety and air traffic controller's wellbeing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wen-Chin Li
- Safety and Accident Investigation Centre, Cranfield University, Bedfordshire, UK
| | - Jingyi Zhang
- Safety and Accident Investigation Centre, Cranfield University, Bedfordshire, UK
| | | |
Collapse
|
6
|
Mansyur M, Sagitasari R, Wangge G, Sulistomo AB, Kekalih A. Long working hours, poor sleep quality, and work-family conflict: determinant factors of fatigue among Indonesian tugboat crewmembers. BMC Public Health 2021; 21:1832. [PMID: 34627227 PMCID: PMC8502348 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-021-11883-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2020] [Accepted: 09/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tugboat crewmembers are susceptible to fatigue during their 24-h work shifts, despite the availability of rest time. The fatigue experienced by seafarers contributes to marine accidents and metabolic and cardiovascular diseases, which have long-term effects. This study aimed to analyse the association between working hours and fatigue and other possibly related factors in tugboat crewmembers. METHOD This comparative cross-sectional study included 127 tugboat crew members from 15 randomly chosen tugboats in Samarinda Harbor, Indonesia. Their fatigue levels while at work were measured using a reaction timer and standardised questionnaire. Personal and occupational data of crewmembers, including age, marital status, rating (job ranking), duration on board, length of seafaring experience, watch system, smoking status, coffee and alcohol consumption, and working hours, were collected. Moreover, sleep quality and stress levels related to work-family conflict were measured and analysed using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and Work-Family Conflict Scale (WCFS), respectively. RESULTS The study found that 40.2% of the subjects were classified as having fatigue. The determinant factors were long working hours (> 72 h/week), poor sleep quality, and work-family conflict [adj. OR = 13.32; 95%-CI (4.78-31.23)] and p < 0.001, [adj. OR = 4.49 (1.39-14.52)] and p = 0.012, [adj. OR = 2.87 (1.12-7.33)] and p = 0.028, respectively. However, personal and occupational factors, including age, marital status, duration on board, length of seafaring experience, smoking status, and coffee and alcohol consumption, were not significantly associated with crewmember fatigue. CONCLUSION The incidence of fatigue among Indonesian tugboat crewmembers operating on the Mahakam River was considerably high. Working hours, sleep quality, and work-family conflict were strongly associated with fatigue in tugboat crewmembers; therefore, the working hours of tugboat crewmembers need to be improved. Crewmember lifestyle variables need to be studied further.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Muchtaruddin Mansyur
- Occupational Medicine Division, Community Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia. .,South East Asian Ministers Education Organization, Regional Center for Food and Nutrition/SEAMEO-RECFON, Pusat Kajian Gizi Regional Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia.
| | - Risna Sagitasari
- Occupational Medicine Post Graduate Study Program, Community Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Grace Wangge
- South East Asian Ministers Education Organization, Regional Center for Food and Nutrition/SEAMEO-RECFON, Pusat Kajian Gizi Regional Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Astrid B Sulistomo
- Occupational Medicine Division, Community Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Aria Kekalih
- Occupational Medicine Division, Community Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Billones R, Liwang JK, Butler K, Graves L, Saligan LN. Dissecting the fatigue experience: A scoping review of fatigue definitions, dimensions, and measures in non-oncologic medical conditions. Brain Behav Immun Health 2021; 15:100266. [PMID: 34589772 PMCID: PMC8474156 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbih.2021.100266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2021] [Revised: 04/29/2021] [Accepted: 05/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Fatigue is a prevalent and potentially debilitating symptom that impacts the health-related quality-of-life of individuals diagnosed with acute and chronic medical conditions. Yet, its etiologic mechanism is not fully understood. Additionally, the assessment and determination of the clinical meaning of fatigue and its multidimensionality may vary by medical condition. Methods A scoping literature review was conducted to investigate how fatigue is defined and measured, including its dimensions, in non-oncologic medical conditions. The PubMed database was searched using keywords. Results Overall, 8376 articles were screened at the title/abstract levels, where 293 articles were chosen for full-text review that mentioned fatigue or included fatigue measures. The review of the full text excluded 246 articles that did not assess at least one fatigue dimension using validated questionnaires and clinical tests. The final set included 47 articles. Physical fatigue was the most assessed fatigue dimension and the Multidimensional Fatigue Inventory was the most widely used questionnaire to assess fatigue in this review. Limitations This review was limited by including only English-language publications and using PubMed as the sole database for the search. Conclusions This review affirms that fatigue is a multidimensional construct, agnostic of medical condition, and that individual fatigue dimensions can be measured by validated clinical measures. Future research should focus on expanding the repertoire of clinical measures to assess specific fatigue dimensions. The 27 different validated clinical measures used to assess fatigue and its dimensions; 20 instruments assessed the physical, 8 for mental, 7 cognitive, 5 for motivational, 2 for emotional, 1 peripheral, 1 for central, 1 psychosocial. Physical was the most measured dimension, as assessed in 42 of 47 included articles. This review affirms that fatigue is a multidimensional construct, agnostic of medical condition, and that individual fatigue dimensions can be measured by validate clinical measures.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Leorey N. Saligan
- Corresponding author. National Institute of Nursing Research, National Institutes of Health 9000, Rockville Pike, Building 3, Room 5E14, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Cochran KR, Letvak SA, McCoy TP, Bacon C, Karper WB. Can Nurses Self-Assess Fatigue?: Implications for Nurse Leaders. J Nurs Adm 2021; 51:507-512. [PMID: 34519698 DOI: 10.1097/nna.0000000000001055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aims of this study were to describe nurses' self-perceptions of fatigue and to examine nurses' acceptance of specific fatigue countermeasures. BACKGROUND The work of nurses places them at a high risk of fatigue. Evidence suggests 75% to 80% of nurses in the United States experience high levels of fatigue. METHODS This descriptive, cross-sectional correlational study surveyed 279 nurses. RESULTS Results suggest that almost half of nurses (46%) are not able to accurately self-assess fatigue. Nurses expressed acceptance of several workplace fatigue reduction strategies. CONCLUSIONS It may be unrealistic to expect nurses to self-assess fatigue levels and make decisions about their ability to safely provide patient care. Reliable methods for assessing fatigue in the workplace are needed. Several strategies exist that may be used to alleviate fatigue, and many were acceptable to nurses. Nurse leaders are well positioned to implement changes that impact the occurrence of nurse fatigue and thereby the quality of patient care.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Karen R Cochran
- Author Affiliations : Grant Specialist (Dr Cochran), School of Nursing, Western Carolina University, Asheville, North Carolina; and Professor (Dr Letvak), Clinical Professor (Dr McCoy), and Assistant Professor (Dr Bacon), School of Nursing, and Associate Professor (Dr Karper), Department of Kinesiology, University of North Carolina at Greensboro
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
9
|
Ihsan T, Edwin T, Azwir Y, Derosya V. Fatigue Analysis to Evaluate Workloads in Production Area at Crumb Rubber Factories of Padang city, West Sumatra Indonesia. Indian J Occup Environ Med 2021; 24:148-152. [PMID: 33746426 PMCID: PMC7962516 DOI: 10.4103/ijoem.ijoem_252_19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2019] [Revised: 11/27/2019] [Accepted: 04/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Work fatigue had the potential to cause work accidents that had an impact on losses to the company. This study aimed to analyze the level of subjective-work fatigue and evaluated the effect of workload on fatigue in the production area at The Crumb Rubber Factories of Padang City, West Sumatra, Indonesia. Methods: The research respondents were all workers in the production area in the three largest crumb rubber factories in Padang, totaling 348 workers. The respondents consisted of 135 workers in the wet division and 213 workers in the dry division. Subjective fatigue analysis uses the Industrial Fatigue Research Committee (IFRC) questionnaire method. Measures workload based on Indonesian Standards No. 7269 of 2009 concerning Workload Assessment based on Calorie Level according to Energy Expenditures. Results: The percentage of work fatigue in the production area was 26.32% light level, 72.63% medium level, and 1.05% heavy level. The workload had a significant effect on work fatigue, with a P value of 0.003. Conclusion: On the basis of the results of multiple regression analysis of all the variable characteristics of the respondents and work area, the most influential factor affecting the occurrence of fatigue in a crumb rubber factory was the workload. All crumb rubber factories in Padang should make improvements related to workload in controlling work fatigue.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Taufiq Ihsan
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Universitas Andalas, Padang, West Sumatra, Indonesia
| | - Tivany Edwin
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Universitas Andalas, Padang, West Sumatra, Indonesia
| | - Yasinta Azwir
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Universitas Andalas, Padang, West Sumatra, Indonesia
| | - Vioni Derosya
- Department of Agroindustrial Technology, Faculty of Agriculture Universitas Andalas Kampus Limau Manis, Padang, Indonesia
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Rachmawati D, Paskarini I. Correlation between Individual Characteristics and Rest Break with Work-related Fatigue on Telecommunication Network Service Workers. THE INDONESIAN JOURNAL OF OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH 2021. [DOI: 10.20473/ijosh.v10i1.2021.25-33] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Work-related fatigue on workers are usually caused by some factors such as individual characteristics (age, work period, nutritional status) and rest break. This research aims to analyze the correlation between individual characteristics and rest break with work-related fatigue on telecommunication network service workers. Method: This research used an observational analytic and a cross-sectional approach. The population and sample in this research were all 32 workers at I-OAN unit in a telecommunication network service company. The independent variables in this study were age, work period, nutritional status, and rest break, while the dependent variable was work-related fatigue. Data were obtained throughquestionnaires about individual characteristics (age, work period, nutritional status) and rest break filled by workers. The data were also obtained through the Industrial Fatique Research Committee (IFRC) questionnaires filled by workers. All of the data in this study were analyzed with the Spearman correlation test (α = 0.05). Results: The majority of I-OAN unit workers are in the age range of 25-29 years (46.9%), have 3-4 years of work period (56.2%), and have normal nutritional status (40.6%). For the rest break variable, there are16 workers (50%) who have <30 minutes rest break and also 16 workers (50%) who have ≥ 30 minutes rest break. Conclusion: There is a correlation between individual characteristics and rest break with work-related fatigue on telecommunication network service workers.Keywords: individual characteristics, rest break, work-related fatigue
Collapse
|
11
|
The association between heart rate variability, reaction time, and indicators of workplace fatigue in wildland firefighters. Int Arch Occup Environ Health 2021; 94:823-831. [PMID: 33426591 DOI: 10.1007/s00420-020-01641-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2020] [Accepted: 12/19/2020] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To understand the association between heart rate variability and indices of fatigue, total sleep time, and reaction time in shift workers. METHODS Ten participants from the British Columbia Wildfire Service management team were examined over a 14-day active fire-line period. Daily measures of subjective fatigue, sleepiness, and alertness were recorded using a visual analog scale. Daily total sleep time was recorded using a wrist actigraph. Cardiac autonomic modulation was examined each morning using heart rate variability (HRV). Three measures of reaction time (simple reaction time, choice reaction tie, and discriminatory reaction time) was examined on days 1, 5, 10, and 14. Multiple linear regression analysis was utilized to examine the association between HRV and indices of fatigue, total sleep time, and reaction time. RESULTS Mean shift duration was 13.8 ± 0.77 h. Significant inverse associations were observed between HRV and sleepiness [r = - 0.60, p = 0.000] and fatigue [r = - 0.55, p = 0.000], and a positive association with total sleep time (min) [r = 0.28, p = 0.009]. There were no significant relationships between HRV and simple reaction time (ms) [r = - 0.32, p = 0.182], choice reaction time (ms) [r = - 0.10, p = 0.850], or discriminatory reaction time (ms) [r = - 0.09, p = 0.881]. CONCLUSIONS HRV displayed significant associations with indices of fatigue and sleep, whereby demonstrating its utility as a practical tool for monitoring the development of fatigue in wildland firefighters and for providing insight when to make lifestyle modifications to preserve alertness.
Collapse
|
12
|
Six Dijkstra M, Soer R, Bieleman A, McCraty R, Oosterveld F, Gross D, Reneman M. Exploring a 1-Minute Paced Deep-Breathing Measurement of Heart Rate Variability as Part of a Workers' Health Assessment. Appl Psychophysiol Biofeedback 2020; 44:83-96. [PMID: 30506478 PMCID: PMC6505487 DOI: 10.1007/s10484-018-9422-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Low heart rate variability (HRV) is related to health problems that are known reasons for sick-leave or early retirement. A 1-minute-protocol could allow large scale HRV measurement for screening of health problems and, potentially, sustained employability. Our objectives were to explore the association of HRV with measures of health. Cross-sectional design with 877 Dutch employees assessed during a Workers' Health Assessment. Personal and job characteristics, workability, psychological and mental problems, and lifestyle were measured with questionnaires. Biometry was measured (BMI, waist circumference, blood pressure, glucose, cholesterol). HRV was assessed with a 1-minute paced deep-breathing protocol and expressed as mean heart rate range (MHRR). A low MHRR indicates a higher health risk. Groups were classified age adjusted for HRV and compared. Spearman correlations between raw MHRR and the other measures were calculated. Significant univariable correlations (p < 0.05) were entered in a linear regression model to explore the multivariable association with MHRR. Age, years of employment, BMI and waist circumference differed significantly between HRV groups. Significant correlations were found between MHRR and age, workability, BMI, waist circumference, cholesterol, systolic and diastolic blood-pressure and reported physical activity and alcohol consumption. In the multivariable analyses 21.1% of variance was explained: a low HRV correlates with aging, higher BMI and higher levels of reported physically activity. HRV was significantly associated with age, measures of obesity (BMI, waist circumference), and with reported physical activity, which provides a first glance of the utility of a 1-minute paced deep-breathing HRV protocol as part of a comprehensive preventive Workers' Health Assessment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marianne Six Dijkstra
- Saxion University of Applied Sciences/AGZ, M.H. Tromplaan 28, 7500 KB, Enschede, The Netherlands.
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands.
| | - Remko Soer
- Saxion University of Applied Sciences/AGZ, M.H. Tromplaan 28, 7500 KB, Enschede, The Netherlands
- Groningen Spine Center, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - André Bieleman
- Saxion University of Applied Sciences/AGZ, M.H. Tromplaan 28, 7500 KB, Enschede, The Netherlands
| | | | - Frits Oosterveld
- Saxion University of Applied Sciences/AGZ, M.H. Tromplaan 28, 7500 KB, Enschede, The Netherlands
| | - Douglas Gross
- Department of Physiotherapy, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Michiel Reneman
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Drebinger D, Rasche L, Kroneberg D, Althoff P, Bellmann-Strobl J, Weygandt M, Paul F, Brandt AU, Schmitz-Hübsch T. Association Between Fatigue and Motor Exertion in Patients With Multiple Sclerosis-a Prospective Study. Front Neurol 2020; 11:208. [PMID: 32351439 PMCID: PMC7174662 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2020.00208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2019] [Accepted: 03/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Fatigue in multiple sclerosis (MS) is conceived as a multidimensional construct. Objectives: This study aims to describe the changes of balance and gait parameters after 6 min of walking (6 MW) as potential quantitative markers for perceptions of state fatigue and trait fatigue in MS. Methods: A total of 19 patients with MS (17 with fatigue) and 24 healthy subjects underwent static posturography, gait analysis, and ratings of perceived exertion before and after 6 MW. Results: 6 MW was perceived as exhaustive, but both groups featured more dynamic comfortable speed walking after 6 MW. Shorter stride length at maximum speed and increased postural sway after 6 MW indicated fatigability of balance and gait in MS group only. While most changes were related to higher levels of perceived exertion after 6 MW (state fatigue), higher fatigue ratings (trait fatigue) were only associated with less increase in arm swing at comfortable speed. Further analysis revealed different associations of trait fatigue and performance fatigability with disability and motor functions. Performance fatigability was most closely related to the Expanded Disability Status Scale, while for trait fatigue, the strongest correlations were seen with balance function and handgrip strength. Conclusions: Fatigability of performance was closely related to perceptions of exertion after 6 MW (state fatigue) and disability in MS but distinct from fatigue ratings, conceived as trait fatigue. Our study identified postural sway, arm swing during gait, and hand grip strength as unexpected potential motor indicators of fatigue ratings in MS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Drebinger
- NeuroCure Clinical Research Center, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin Institute of Health, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Ludwig Rasche
- NeuroCure Clinical Research Center, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin Institute of Health, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany.,Department of Neurology, Park Clinic Weissensee, Berlin, Germany
| | - Daniel Kroneberg
- Department of Neurology and Experimental Neurology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Patrik Althoff
- NeuroCure Clinical Research Center, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin Institute of Health, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Judith Bellmann-Strobl
- NeuroCure Clinical Research Center, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin Institute of Health, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany.,Experimental and Clinical Research Center, Max Delbrueck Center for Molecular Medicine and Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin Institute of Health, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Martin Weygandt
- NeuroCure Clinical Research Center, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin Institute of Health, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Friedemann Paul
- NeuroCure Clinical Research Center, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin Institute of Health, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany.,Department of Neurology and Experimental Neurology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany.,Experimental and Clinical Research Center, Max Delbrueck Center for Molecular Medicine and Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin Institute of Health, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Alexander U Brandt
- NeuroCure Clinical Research Center, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin Institute of Health, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany.,Department of Neurology, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, United States
| | - Tanja Schmitz-Hübsch
- NeuroCure Clinical Research Center, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin Institute of Health, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany.,Experimental and Clinical Research Center, Max Delbrueck Center for Molecular Medicine and Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin Institute of Health, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Bazazan A, Rasoulzadeh Y, Dianat I, Safaiyan A, Mombeini Z. Occupational fatigue and mental health complaints among 8-hour shift workers of petrochemical industries in Iran. Work 2019; 62:309-317. [PMID: 30829641 DOI: 10.3233/wor-192865] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Shift working is unavoidable in many industries with continual material processing such as petrochemical plants. So, the adverse effects of shift working on workers should be seriously considered. OBJECTIVE This cross-sectional study evaluated occupational fatigue and mental health complaints and their relationship in rotating 8-hour shift workers. METHOD In this study, 287 shift workers participated. The Multidimensional Fatigue Inventory (MFI-20) and General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-28) were used to evaluate the level of fatigue and mental health, respectively. RESULT A relatively high prevalence of mental health complaints (particularly social dysfunction) and fatigue (especially general fatigue) were found among the study population. In general, 43.4% of participants reported a mental health problem. A moderate correlation was found between fatigue and mental health (r = 0.58). The stepwise regression model revealed that fatigue was significantly related only to "anxiety and insomnia" and "severe depression". CONCLUSION This study revealed that the 8 h shift workers in studied areas are exposed to a considerable risk of mental health and fatigue. So, improving the ergonomics and health aspects of the workplace is recommended to reduce related risk factors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ahmad Bazazan
- Department of Occupational Health and Ergonomics, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Yahya Rasoulzadeh
- Department of Occupational Health and Ergonomics, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Road Traffic Injury Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, IR Iran
| | - Iman Dianat
- Department of Occupational Health and Ergonomics, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Abdolrasoul Safaiyan
- Department of Vital Statistics and Epidemiology, Faculty of Health, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Zohreh Mombeini
- Department of Occupational Health, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| |
Collapse
|