Sleep is the best medicine: How rest facilities and EnergyPods can improve staff wellbeing

Abstract

Healthcare workers' wellbeing is critical to the NHS. Night shifts have a big impact on their physical and mental health. Recently there has been national funding for rest facilities. An EnergyPod was installed in the acute medical unit. The study comprised two surveys: one quantitative survey performed prior to the pod introduction and repeated 3 months after; and one qualitative survey performed immediately after pod use. We observed more staff taking breaks of 30 minutes after the pod introduction (37% before vs 69% after). Of users, 81% felt more alert and 83% were more energised. Half of the respondents felt more able to drive after use.The feedback showed three themes: appreciation of designated space away from clinical areas, relaxation and improved interdisciplinary cohesion. We have shown consistent data that rest is important for wellbeing. We recommend the use of EnergyPods in high acuity areas.