Page:Risk of performance errors due to sleep loss, circadian desynchronization, fatigue, and work overload.pdf/1

 Risk of Performance Errors due to Sleep Loss, Circadian Desynchronization, Fatigue, and Work Overload

Alexandra M. Whitmire Wyle Integrated Science and Engineering Group

Lauren B. Leveton NASA Johnson Space Center

Laura Barger Harvard Medical School and Brigham and Women's Hospital

George Brainard Jefferson Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University

David F. Dinges University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine and Drexel University

Elizabeth Klerman Brigham and Women's Hospital

Camille Shea Universities Space Research Association

Fatigue occurs during spaceflight and will jeopardize health and performance. This risk may be influenced by artificial and transmitted light exposure, individual vulnerability to sleep loss and circadian dynamics, and work/sleep schedules. Efforts are needed to improve sleep hygiene, and to identify and improve conditions that interfere with sleep quality. Research areas may include: development of a self-assessment tool for cognitive function and fatigue, light therapy for phase shifting, alertness and mood disorders, and other means to improve sleep quality and reduce fatigue. Human Research Program Requirements Document, HRP-47052, Rev. C, dated Jan 2009.