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Introduction
Article Outline
SLEEP takes up one third of our lives—at least it should. The 2005 Sleep in America Poll conducted by the National Sleep Foundation (NSF) determined that 75% of US adults experience a sleep problem a few nights a week or more. Thirty-nine percent get less than 7 hours of sleep each weeknight, and 49% are so sleepy during the day that it interferes with daily activities.
Although complaints of insomnia are typically not the primary reason for an office visit, patients will reveal their sleeping difficulties when asked a few simple, straightforward questions. A good night's sleep is at the top of the list for leading a physically and mentally healthy lifestyle, and sleep problems are the source of significant comorbidities.
Despite the importance of treating sleep problems, very few undergraduate and advanced practice nursing schools offer training in insomnia and other sleep disorders. Advanced practice nurses with a solid understanding of diagnosing insomnia and implementing pharmacologic and behavioral interventions can promote sleep as a source of strength in health care.
PII: S1555-4155(06)00586-1
doi:10.1016/j.nurpra.2006.08.011
© 2006 American College of Nurse Practitioners. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
