Nursing Fatigue: An Evidence-Based Practice Review for Oncology Nurses

Nursing fatigue is a current and well-researched topic. Many negative outcomes and consequences exist for patients and nurses that have been linked to nursing fatigue. Medical errors are one such consequence, and these errors have become one of the top three preventable deaths in the United States. Oncology nurses are not immune to fatigue, and the consequences of their fatigue can be much more harmful to patients.

At a Glance

• Medication errors are the third leading cause of preventable death.
• Extended work hours can be associated with nursing fatigue and errors.
• Nursing fatigue can also be associated with nurse injury, such as needlestick injuries.