High role overload among nursing students is associated with frequent night shifts, irregular sleep, and lack of physical exercise.
A cross-sectional study of 512 nursing students identified three latent profiles of role overload (low, moderate, high). Students in the high overload group reported significantly more frequent night shifts, irregular sleep, and less physical exercise compared to other groups (all p < 0.05).
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High role overload among nursing students is associated with frequent night shifts, irregular sleep, and lack of physical exercise. The current body of evidence comprises 1 study. EvidenceHub rates the overall confidence at 32/100 (low).
The Claim
High role overload among nursing students is associated with frequent night shifts, irregular sleep, and lack of physical exercise.
This conclusion is most relevant to: Nursing students (n=512) from a cross-sectional survey..
What the Research Shows
The conclusion draws on 1 linked study. Highlights from the cited literature:
- ▸Latent profiles of role overload and associated factors among nursing students: A cross-sectional study. (Nurse education today, 2026) —
How It Works
The proposed biological pathway:
- ▸Nursing students face dual pressures of academic coursework and clinical internships
- ▸These pressures contribute to role overload
- ▸High overload is linked to frequent night shifts, irregular sleep, and lack of exercise
- ▸Result: High overload group exhibits unhealthy lifestyle habits and high work demands
Who Might Benefit
Evidence fit by population:
- ▸Nursing students (n=512) from a cross-sectional survey.
Recommended Dose
N/A
Limitations & Caveats
Important context when interpreting this evidence:
- ▸Cross-sectional design prevents causal inference
- ▸Self-reported measures may introduce bias
- ▸Sample limited to one institution or region, limiting generalizability
Frequently Asked Questions
What is role overload in nursing students?▼
Role overload refers to the stress from balancing academic coursework and clinical internships, leading to excessive demands on time and energy.
How many categories of role overload were found?▼
Three categories: low, moderate, and high role overload.
What factors predict high role overload?▼
Significant predictors include frequent night shifts, irregular sleep, lack of physical exercise, and higher number of patients cared for.
Can lifestyle changes reduce role overload?▼
The study suggests that improving sleep quality, reducing night shifts, and encouraging physical exercise may help alleviate role overload.
References
- 1.Zhang H, Meng Y, Xia Z. “Latent profiles of role overload and associated factors among nursing students: A cross-sectional study..” Nurse education today, 2026. PMID: 42475915 DOI: 10.1016/j.nedt.2026.107294