The Impact of Sleep and Circadian Rhythms on Cognitive Functioning and Performance in Medical Residents

Abstract Herein we respond to a recent call by Kay & Dzierzewski 1 for works describing the importance of sleep and circadian rhythms in psychological functioning. The premise of this paper is to emphasize the need to enhance medical education by addressing the interplay between sleep health, cognitive functioning, and patient care among medical residents. We focus on three key areas: first, the physiological basis of sleep and circadian rhythms; second, the impact of sleep deprivation on cognitive functioning in medical residents; and third, practical implications and policy recommendations for schedule management with optimization for sleep sufficiency and circadian alignment in medical residents (Fig. 1). Context on typical resident work schedules and international policy models, including the European Working Time Directive, highlights the global scope of this issue. The outcomes are intended to inform improvements in physician training and have broader implications for patient care and support the need for institutional change to enhance residents’ well-being and performance.