Assessment of Sleep Among Lebanese University Medical Trainees During Clinical Years and Association With Shifts, Psychological Stress, and Fatigue

Objective: To determine the prevalence of sleep disturbance among Lebanese University medical students and residents during their clinical years and investigate associations with night versus day shifts, psychological stress, and fatigue. Methods: A single-center cross-sectional study was conducted with medical students in their sixth and seventh years of study as well as residents. A total of 226 medical trainees participated in the study. A self-administered questionnaire was distributed electronically in August 2022. The survey included the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index to diagnose sleep disturbance levels as well as questions about demographic data and associated factors. The Epworth Sleepiness Scale, Perceived Stress Scale, and Fatigue Severity Scale were also included. Results: Among 226 participants, the prevalence of significant sleep disturbance was found to be 81%. Academic year (P = .009), night shifts (P < .001), stress (P < .001), fatigue (P < .001), and hypnotic use (P = .045) were found to be associated with sleep disturbance. Of the participants, 82% had moderate stress levels, and 74% were found to have fatigue. Excessive daytime sleepiness was reported in 38% of participants. Conclusions: The frequency of significant sleep disturbance among the medical students and residents was found to be high. Academic year, night shifts, stress, fatigue, and hypnotic use were associated with sleep disturbance.