After-Hours Radiology: Challenges and Strategies for the Radiologist

Abstract

Objective: Because of the increase in the use of 24-hour-a-day 7-day-a-week real-time radiologic interpretation, radiologists more frequently perform after-hours work. The purpose of this article was to examine the challenges arising from after-hours work and describe evidence-based strategies meant to limit the adverse physical and psychologic stresses of after-hours work.

Conclusion: Working nontraditional hours affects a radiologist's health, social life, professional productivity, and possibly interpretive accuracy. Appropriate attention to these factors and targeted countermeasures can optimize the professional development and personal well-being of radiologists working after hours.

Keywords: after hours; health; overnight; radiology; shift work; sleep.