The nurse cares for a critically ill patient in the intensive care unit (ICU). Which intervention should the nurse include in the plan of care to improve this patient's sleep quality?
a. Ask all visitors to leave the ICU for the night.
b. Lower the level of lights from 8:00 PM until 7:00 AM.
c. Avoid the use of opioids for pain relief during the evening hours.
d. Schedule assessments to allow at least 4 hours of uninterrupted sleep.
ANS: B
Lowering the level of light will help mimic normal day/night patterns and maximize the opportunity for sleep. Although frequent assessments and opioid use can disturb sleep patterns, these actions are necessary for the care of critically ill patients. For some patients, having a family member or friend at the bedside may decrease anxiety and improve sleep.
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