The nurse is caring for a patient who has not been able to sleep well while in the hospital. The nurse recognizes that lack of sleep can manifest in which of the following signs and symptoms? (Select all that apply.)

Question

a. Changes in physiological function such as temperature
b. Decreased appetite and weight loss
c. Anxiety, irritability, and restlessness
d. Impaired judgment
e. Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
f. Shortness of breath and chest pain

Answer 1

A, B, C, D
The biological rhythm of sleep frequently becomes synchronized with other body functions. Changes in body temperature correlate with sleep pattern. When the sleep-wake cycle becomes disrupted, changes in physiological function such as temperature can occur. Patients can experience decreased appetite, loss of weight, anxiety, restlessness, irritability, and impaired judgment. Gastrointestinal and respiratory/cardiovascular symptoms such as shortness of breath and chest pain are not symptoms of a disrupted sleep cycle.