Untitled Flashcards Set

What is sleep architecture and what are its two main types?

Sleep architecture refers to the structure of normal sleep, consisting of non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep and rapid eye movement (REM) sleep.

What are the stages of NREM sleep?

NREM sleep is divided into stages N1, N2, and N3, with N1 and N2 being light sleep and N3 being deep sleep or slow wave sleep.

What influences the regulation of sleep?

Sleep regulation involves circadian rhythms, homeostatic processes, hormones, and neurotransmitters such as cortisol and melatonin.

What does homeostatic sleep drive refer to?

Homeostatic sleep drive refers to the accumulation of sleep-inducing substances in the brain that creates the need for sleep.

How does sleep duration change across the lifespan from infancy to adulthood?

Infants sleep 16-20 hours, toddlers 10-13 hours, school-age children see a decrease in total sleep, and adolescents average 7-8 hours.

Why is melatonin important for sleep?

Melatonin levels rise in response to sunlight exposure, peak at sleep onset, and help initiate and maintain sleep.

What is a common assessment tool for daytime sleepiness?

The Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS) is an 8-item tool used to assess the likelihood of falling asleep in various situations.

What are common nonpharmacological treatments for insomnia?

Cognitive and behavioral therapies, including cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBTI), sleep restriction, and stimulus control.

What disorder is characterized by excessive daytime sleepiness and potentially REM sleep abnormalities?

Narcolepsy is characterized by excessive daytime sleepiness along with symptoms related to REM sleep.

What are the effects of sleep disturbances in older adults?

Sleep disturbances in older adults are linked to depression, cognitive decline, and increased health complaints.

What role does the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) play in sleep regulation?

The SCN serves as the circadian pacemaker, controlling the body’s sleep-wake cycles in nearly 24-hour patterns.

What are some genetic implications regarding sleep disorders?

Sleep traits are heritable and certain genetic mutations can lead to specific sleep disorders such as narcolepsy and familial insomnia.

What should be included in a patient’s sleep history assessment?

A patient's sleep history should include routine screening, health history, recent life stresses, and a sleep diary.

How does pregnancy affect sleep patterns?

Pregnancy can lead to sleep disturbances characterized by fragmentation, particularly in the first and third trimesters, and insomnia symptoms.

What are the characteristics of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA)?

OSA is characterized by loud snoring, gasping during sleep, choking, and excessive daytime sleepiness, often associated with obesity.

Why is cognitive therapy effective for managing insomnia?

Cognitive therapy helps patients restructure maladaptive beliefs about sleep that contribute to insomnia symptoms.