0167 Benefits of Daytime Napping

Introduction The topic of workplace siestas has sparked a conversation with valuable findings emerging about job performance and employee well being. In this IRB approved investigation and statistical analysis, our goal was to assess the benefits of taking a midday nap on cognitive efficiency. Methods -Accrual study group target was 39 internal medicine residents (PGY1, PGY2, PGY3). Enrolled and consented residents totaled 15. PGY1 residents were picked at random from in-patient rotation. If no PGY1 residents were available, then PGY2 and PGY3 residents were selected. -Control study group included eligible residents not napping but took the vigilance test before and after the noon conference. -Exclusions criteria- age >55 years, sleep disorders, and currently on stimulators or sedatives. -Naps took place between 12 to 1 PM from October 16th to December 15th. -Each resident took a pre-nap sleep vigilance test, napped for 25 minutes, walked for 7 minutes, took a post-nap sleep vigilance test, and filled out a survey. Results Key findings: -A total of 37 napping encounters from 11 participants. -A total of 16 non-napping encounters from 11 participants. -Post-nap, 81% of the residents improved (average improvement- 7.4%) and 19% worsened (average decline in performance- 5.7%). -Post-nap, self reported outcomes: less than 5 residents felt more tired, one experienced a headache, and one reported irritability. -Self reported assessment: 49% napped and 51% were unable to nap. -Control group: 93% showed worsened vigilance scores (average- 15%); 7% improved (average 16%). Limitations: -Limited to mostly PGY1 residents during in-patient within 2 months. -Study relied on residents volunteering. -A large portion of the residents did not participate in the study at times. -Unable to perform an actual sleep study (polysomnography) and get more accurate measurements. Future direction: -There needs to be a more in-depth study, involving several different residency programs and more accurate and reliable results. -Use motivational techniques to get more volunteers. -Allowing residents to nap periodically. Conclusion -Overall, most residents who took a 25-minute nap improved on the vigilance test. -Better efficiency can translate into better patient care and less mistakes. -Residents would benefit from a daytime nap. Support (if any)