Question

A nurse is reinforcing teaching with an older adult client about methods to improve sleep. Which of the following statements should the nurse include in the teaching?

a) "Napping during the day can negatively impact nighttime sleep."
b) "Drinking caffeine in the evening promotes restful sleep."
c) "Using electronic devices before bedtime enhances sleep quality."
d) "Maintaining an irregular sleep schedule is beneficial for sleep."

Answer 1

The nurse should advise the older adult client that napping during the day can negatively impact nighttime sleep and emphasize maintaining a regular sleep schedule for optimal sleep hygiene.

Step-by-step explanation:

When educating an older adult client on methods to improve sleep, the nurse should include the following important point: "Napping during the day can negatively impact nighttime sleep." Naps can interfere with the ability to fall asleep later because keeping a consistent sleep schedule reinforces the body's sleep-wake cycle, making it easier to fall asleep and wake up at expected times. It is also important to avoid stimulants such as caffeine, especially in the evening, as they can prevent the onset of sleep. Electronic devices emit a blue light that can disrupt the circadian rhythm and impair sleep quality, so their use should be limited before bedtime. Lastly, maintaining a regular sleep schedule is crucial for good sleep hygiene; an irregular schedule can make it difficult for the body to establish a healthy sleep-wake cycle.