Introduction to Nursing Diagnosis: Sleep Pattern Disorder
Sleep Pattern Disorder is a nursing diagnosis denoted by the North American Nursing Diagnosis Association (NANDA). It occurs across all age groups yet is particularly common among the elderly population. Sleep Pattern Disorder is characterized by difficulty initiating and/or maintaining sleep or decreased quantity of sleep. This nursing diagnosis is an indication for nursing intervention, as disturbed sleep patterns can lead to a variety of health risks.
Nursing Diagnosis Definition
Sleep Pattern Disorder is defined as a disruption in the expected patterns of sleep initiation and maintenance, leading to either sleep deprivation or oversleeping. It is most commonly reported by individuals but can also be observed by nurses.
Defining Characteristics
Subjectives
- Complains of difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep or sleeping too much
- Reports poor quality of sleep
- Perceived inability to meet expectations regarding sleep
- Decreased alertness or daytime sleepiness during some hours of the day
Objectives
- Poor performance during activities requiring alertness and concentration
- Unusual postures or restlessness during sleep
- Early morning awakening
- Short sleep latency (time to fall asleep)
- Disturbances in circadian rhythm
- Inadequate nighttime sleep environment (e.g. noise pollution, excessive light)
- Mental health disorders such as anxiety or depression
- Medication side effects
- Chronic disease and pain
- Caffeine and alcohol consumption
Risk Populations
Patients at increased risk for Sleep Pattern Disorders are those with mental health issues, chronic disease, substance abuse, and the elderly.
Associated Problems
Poor sleep quality can lead to various associated problems including decreased attention span, irritability, impaired judgement, and a weakened immune system.
Suggestions for Use
The diagnosis of Sleep Pattern Disorder should be done carefully and monitored regularly. Nurses should assess for sleep patterns along with other symptoms when examining a patient. Sleep patterns should be considered in the context of the patient's daily activities, health status, and medications.
Suggested Alternative Nursing Diagnosis
Alternative NANDA diagnoses include Anxiety, Risk for Injury, and Hopelessness.
Usage Tips
This nursing diagnosis should be used when nursing interventions are indicated. As this diagnosis is subjective, nurses should be sure to monitor patient responses and modify their plan of care as necessary.
NOC Results
- Comfort Level: The patient's level of comfort will be improved by providing interventions to help promote better sleep hygiene.
- Sleep Quality: The patient's quality of sleep should be monitored over time to ensure that interventions are effective.
- Quality of Life: Interventions for this diagnosis should focus on improving the patient's overall quality of life.
NIC Interventions
- Health Education: Educate the patient on proper hygiene techniques to improve quality of sleep.
- Stress Management: Establish interventions that reduce stress and promote relaxation.
- Sleep Environment Management: Design an environment that promotes sleep and reduces noise pollution and disruptions.
- Pain Management: Implement interventions that reduce pain and promote comfort.
Conclusion
Sleep Pattern Disorder is a common diagnosis that impacts many different populations. Nurses must consistently monitor and assess their patients for signs and symptoms of Sleep Pattern Disorder and intervene accordingly. Interventions should focus on improving sleep hygiene, reducing stress, and reducing pain. With appropriate nursing intervention, the quality of sleep for the patient can be significantly improved.
FAQ
- What is Sleep Pattern Disorder? Sleep Pattern Disorder is a disruption in the expected patterns of sleep initiation and maintenance, leading to either sleep deprivation or oversleeping.
- Who is at risk for Sleep Pattern Disorder? Patients at increased risk for Sleep Pattern Disorder are those with mental health issues, chronic disease, substance abuse, and the elderly.
- What should be included in the nursing plan of care? The nursing plan of care should include interventions that promote better sleep hygiene, reduce stress and pain, and design an environment that promotes sleep.
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