Examining the Feasibility of Implementing Specific Nursing Interventions to Promote Sleep in Hospitalized Elderly Patients

Sleep deprivation and subsequent effects on health restoration have been documented in the literature. The purpose of this experimental pilot study was to examine the feasibility of implementing specific nursing interventions to promote sleep in hospitalized older adults. The experimental group received a sleep protocol intervention while the control group received usual nighttime care. While no differences were noted in sleep quality and duration between groups, the experimental group experienced better sleep quality (P = .001), ability to remain asleep (P = .018) and used fewer sleep medications than the control group (P = .044). In addition, those taking sleep medications experienced more awakenings and fewer sleep hours. Experimental group patients identified preferences such as personal hygiene, awareness of normal bedtime, receiving a back rub, straightening bed linens, and receiving a bedtime snack. This pilot provides initial support for the feasibility and utility of implementing a sleep protocol in an acute care setting.