Research on Nurse Scheduling Considering Fairness Preference and Fatigue Risk under Hierarchical Management System

The high-pressure and high-load work environments increase the risk of nurse fatigue, thereby affecting patient safety, quality of care services, and nurse health. This study examines the nurse scheduling issue within hierarchical systems, taking into consideration fairness preferences and fatigue risks. By integrating a fatigue model based on circadian rhythms and assessing risks from soft constraint violations, the strategy first ensures scheduling equity and then employs a metaheuristic algorithm to identify optimal solutions. Case studies illustrate that this approach promotes fairness among nurses at different levels and reduces fatigue risks. This research provides valuable guidance on managing fatigue risks and improving care quality, patient safety, and nurse welfare.