Improved Sleep in Acute Care Settings

Background Patients in the cardiac telemetry unit report poor sleep quality and sleep satisfaction. Significance Having quality sleep can make a huge impact on patient recovery and length of stay. Purpose The purpose of this project is to find methods that promote patient sleep and satisfaction while in the hospital. Literature Review After researching, the best evidence for improved sleep quality in an acute care setting are methods that reduce or minimize the number of disturbances. A sleep menu can be easily incorporated in the cardiac telemetry and provides clients with items to block out sleep disturbances. A nightime protocol can easily be implemented in a briefing session and helps nurses promote a healthier sleeping environment. Intervention Description The intervention that I will be implementing on the unit is targeted to generate patient centered care and diminish sleep disruptions. The interventions being implementing on the cardiac telemetry unit are quiet hours, a sleep brochure aimed at improved sleep environment, and a sleep basket with items like eye shields and ear plugs. The interventions will first be discussed with the charge nurse during nigh shift huddle. Concerns of patients sleep, and the statistics will be brought to their attention during this time. Once approved the nurses will be briefed on the items and strategies that will be put in place. Evaluation of the Project The interventions will be evaluated by creating a patient sleep quality survey for our patients to see if units’ quality of sleep has improved. The outcomes of this project will be measured by a survey, and the staff’s acceptance will be evaluated during huddle. During huddle nurses will be encouraged to discuss the new interventions and provide feedback on areas of improvement. The nurses will also be encouraged to provide personal patient experiences on the new interventions