Prevalence of fatigue and consumption of energy drinks consumption among nursing students studying part-time

Abstract

Background: Professional nurses who study part-time are faced with demanding tasks, demanding routine, having to cope with their studies and family commitments. Some nurses try different tactics to cope with their demanding tasks, such as the consumption of energy drinks, to alleviate tiredness and fatigue. Although these energy drinks can alleviate fatigue and boost their energy levels, they have adverse effects to their health such as migraines, insomnia, seizures, arrhythmias and other cardiovascular complications.

Aim: To determine the health effects of energy drinks among nurses studying part-time.

Setting: Selected university in the Gauteng province, South Africa.

Methods: Descriptive, quantitative method that was contextual in nature was used. Self-administered questionnaire was used to collect data from a conveniently sampled population to determine the health effects of the use of energy drinks. Data analysis were done by means of descriptive statistics using the Statistical package for Social Sciences version 26.

Results: Findings indicated that nurses studying part-time experience fatigue (n = 86; 49%). To alleviate fatigue (n = 91; 52%), they use energy drinks.

Conclusion: Use of energy drinks is prevalent among the nurses because of fatigue caused by studying while working. To reduce the use of energy drinks, the participants need study leave and to be supported by their families and employers.

Contribution: The study encourages reduction or prevent the use of energy drinks by nurses who work and study part-time. Participants must use time management as a coping mechanism.