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NIOSH Training for Nurses on Shift Work and Long Work Hours
Epworth Sleepiness Scale18 [interactive web page]
In your current, usual way of life, how likely are you to nod off or fall asleep in the following situations, in contrast to feeling just tired?
Even if you haven’t done some of these things recently, try to work out how they would affect you. It is important that you answer each question as best you can.
Using the following scale, choose the most appropriate number for each situation.
| Situation | 0
Would never |
1
Slight chance |
2
Moderate chance |
3
High chance |
| Sitting and reading | ||||
| Watching TV | ||||
| Sitting, inactive, in a public place (e.g., in a meeting, theater, or dinner event) | ||||
| As a passenger in a car for an hour or more without stopping for a break | ||||
| Lying down to rest when circumstances permit | ||||
| Sitting and talking to someone | ||||
| Sitting quietly after a meal without alcohol | ||||
| In a car, while stopped for a few minutes in traffic or at a light |
Add up the numbers you selected for the eight situations to get your total score. A score of 10 or greater raises concern: you may need to get more sleep, improve your sleep practices, or seek medical attention to determine why you are sleepy.
© 1990-1997 M.W. Johns; used under license.