Sleep: a reality or dream for the hospitalized adult?

Abstract

Nursing research literature is examined to determine the extent of sleep loss for the hospitalized adult. Research from the patient's perspective, nurses' assessment of patient's sleep and somnographic studies are considered. Although these three methods are inconsistent in the exact extent of sleep loss, all suggest that hospitalized patients experience less sleep than their normal pattern. Reasons for patients losing sleep are explored. Environmental factors in critical care areas are the most cited reason for loss of sleep yet other reasons are suggested. Consequences of sleep loss are explored. Some nursing interventions offered in the existing literature are examined for their feasibility. Finally, directions for future research are offered from this review of the literature.