Aim The aim of this pilot evaluation was to assess whether changing a nursing shift pattern to incorporate 12-hour shifts would have positive effects for patients and staff in a ward environment.

Method All nurses, night sisters and therapists in contact with the ward during the trial were asked to complete a questionnaire. Data on sickness, agency use, ‘untoward incidents’ and spread of unsocial hours were also analysed to see what effects a change in shift pattern had.

Results The new shift pattern offered benefits for patients through improved communication, increased continuity of care and more content staff. In addition, staff complied to the Working Time Regulations (DTI 1998) with no change to their unsocial hour pay. There was also a reduced need for agency nurses.

Conclusion This study illustrated the potential a new nursing shift pattern involving 12-hour shifts has for patient care, as well as for staff job satisfaction and efficient management of the ward. Twelve-hour shifts are infamous in nursing and many studies cite exhausted and dissatisfied staff as a reason for the negative press (Fitzpatrick et al 1999 Todd et al 1993). In particular, Todd et al (1989) claimed that the quality of patient care was negatively affected on wards that used a 12-hour shift pattern. The study reported here challenges Todd et al’s work (1989, 1993) by demonstrating the benefits a change in shift pattern to 12-hour shifts can have for patients and staff in a ward environment.