Sleep Disorders and Influences

Flashcards covering key concepts related to sleep disorders, their influences, and nursing responsibilities.

Insomnia

Chronic difficulty falling asleep, frequent awakenings, and short periods of sleep.

Hypersomnia

Sleep disturbance resulting in excessive daytime sleepiness, symptoms include fatigue and irritability.

Sleep Apnea

Condition where breathing stops during sleep, often caused by physical abnormalities and can lead to excessive daytime sleepiness.

Narcolepsy

A neurological disorder characterized by sudden sleep episodes, entering REM sleep quickly, and may include sleep paralysis.

Circadian Rhythm

Biological clock that influences changes in body temperature, heart rate, blood pressure, and hormone release.

NREM Sleep

Non-Rapid Eye Movement sleep phase, important for tissue repair and lowering the heart stress.

REM Sleep

Rapid Eye Movement sleep, crucial for brain development, cognitive rehabilitation, and memory.

Sleep Disturbances

Symptoms including decreased appetite, weight loss, anxiety, and impaired judgment due to poor sleep quality.

Sleep Requirements for Teens

Teens require 8-10 hours of sleep for optimal growth but often get 7 hours or less.

Sleep Hygiene

Practices to promote good sleep, such as avoiding screens before bed, limiting caffeine, and maintaining a cool sleeping environment.

Melatonin

A hormone that regulates sleep-wake cycles, used as a supplement to aid sleep.

Cultural Influence on Sleep

Examples include co-sleeping or bed sharing practices that differ across cultures.

Nursing Responsibilities for Sleep Disturbances

Includes assessing patient's sleep patterns, medication usage, and environmental factors affecting sleep.