The Essential Role of Nurses in Enhancing Sleep Hygiene Practices for Hospitalized Patients in Critical and Long-Term Care Settings

Abstract

Background:Sleep disturbances are common among hospitalized patients and can significantly hinder their recovery, health, and overall well-being. In critical care and long-term care settings, these disturbances are often aggravated by factors such as environmental noise, frequent medical procedures, and stress. Nurses are key in mitigating these issues by implementing sleep hygiene practices, which are vital for enhancing sleep quality and fostering patient recovery.

Aim:This paper seeks to investigate the scientific evidence supporting sleep hygiene practices in hospital settings and analyze the role of nurses in improving sleep for hospitalized patients, particularly in critical care and long-term care environments.

Methods:A thorough review of existing literature on sleep hygiene, sleep disturbances in hospitalized patients, and nursing interventions was carried out. The paper consolidates findings from studies on environmental adjustments, patient education, and pharmacological methods used to enhance sleep in hospital settings. It also explores the challenges nurses face in applying these strategies, especially within critical care and long-term care contexts.

Results:Research indicates that sleep hygiene practices, such as minimizing environmental noise, optimizing lighting, and encouraging relaxation techniques, can substantially improve sleep quality for hospitalized patients. Nurses are pivotal in implementing these interventions, offering patient education, supporting non-pharmacological strategies, and using pharmacological treatments when appropriate. However, challenges such as staffing shortages and patient-specific factors like pain and anxiety can hinder the effective application of sleep hygiene practices.

Conclusion:Nurses play an essential role in enhancing sleep hygiene for hospitalized patients. By utilizing evidence-based interventions and addressing obstacles, nurses can improve recovery outcomes and enhance patients' quality of life.