Volume 23 No 5 (2025)
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Burden of Sleep Deprivation among Clinical Postgraduate Doctors in a Rural Tertiary Care Centre: A Cross-Sectional Study
Dr. Eby Yesudas , Dr. MD Kamran Chisty, Dr. Mohan Reddy M
Abstract
ABSTRACT
INTRODUCTION
Sleep deprivation is a critical concern among medical professionals, particularly clinical postgraduate
doctors who face irregular schedules and high-stress environments. Chronic sleep deprivation impacts
cognitive performance, emotional stability, and patient safety. This study aims to assess the
prevalence of sleep disturbances and their association with daytime sleepiness among clinical
postgraduate doctors.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
A cross-sectional study was conducted among 103 clinical postgraduate doctors aged 20–35 years at
a rural tertiary care hospital. Participants completed two validated instruments: the Regensburg
Insomnia Scale (RIS) and the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS). Insomnia was defined as RIS ≥13, and
excessive daytime sleepiness as ESS ≥11. Statistical analyses included descriptive statistics, chi-square
tests, and odds ratio calculations.
RESULTS
Insomnia was observed in 39.8% (n=41) and excessive daytime sleepiness in 53.4% (n=55) of
participants. A significant association between insomnia and daytime sleepiness was found (χ²=25.88,
p<0.001; OR=12.25). Sleep disturbances were more prevalent among females, unmarried individuals,
and those aged 26–30 years.
CONCLUSION
The study reveals a high prevalence of sleep deprivation and a strong correlation between insomnia
and daytime sleepiness among clinical postgraduate doctors. These findings underscore the urgent
need for institutional measures such as regulating work hours, promoting sleep hygiene, and providing
mental health support to mitigate the adverse effects of chronic sleep loss on healthcare professionals
and patient care.
Keywords
Sleep Deprivation, Insomnia, Daytime Sleepiness, Postgraduate Doctors, Cross-Sectional Study.
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