Sleep often is disrupted for critically ill patients. Which nursing intervention is most appropriate to promote sleep and rest?

Question

a. Consult with the pharmacist to adjust medication times to allow periods of sleep or rest between intervals.
b. Encourage family members to talk with the patient whenever they are present in the room.
c. Keep the television on to provide "white" noise and distraction.
d. Leave the lights on in the room so that the patient is not frightened of his or her surroundings.

Answer 1

A
Planning care to promote periods of uninterrupted rest is important. Consulting with the pharmacist to adjust a medication schedule is an excellent example of this intervention. It is important for family members to communicate with the patient; however, rest periods must be scheduled. Family members can be present in the room while remaining quiet during these scheduled times. The television may be useful if it is part of the patient's normal routine for sleep; however, it does not consistently provide "white noise" or distraction. Lights should be dimmed during scheduled rest periods and at night to facilitate sleep and rest.