An older client lives in an assisted living facility and is seen reading in the lounge area most nights. Which issue causes the greatest concern for the nurse caring for this client?

Question

1. The client may have significant underlying problems.
2. The client is averaging five hours of sleep every 24 hours.
3. The client occasionally expresses the desire for more sleep.
4. The client is forgetful, irritable, and frequently lethargic.

Answer 1

4. The client is forgetful, irritable, and frequently lethargic.

Explanation: 1. Insomnia can be the result of a primary psychological or physiological issues, but this is not always the reason for nighttime wakefulness. The nurse would assess for pain, depression, and other difficulties.
2. Most people do require roughly eight hours of sleep each night or desire a daytime nap; however, some people prefer and function well on less sleep.
3. The nurse is concerned about and addresses the client's expressed desire to obtain more sleep. An as-needed dose of a sleeping medication should be requested in response to this report.
4. Insomnia is defined as an inability to fall asleep or stay asleep on most nights and lasting for over a month. The individual experiencing insomnia is at risk for daytime drowsiness and may experience problems with concentration and function. The client who exhibits cognitive symptoms is not getting enough rest.