Night‐time sleep of intensive care patients: A qualitative study

Abstract

AbstractBackgroundThe quality of the sleep in the intensive care unit (ICU) is generally poor. It is known that several factors contribute to this situation.Aims and ObjectivesTo describe the experiences of adult patients during night‐time sleep in the ICU.DesignA qualitative study using a phenomenological approach was conducted from May to October 2021. Patients were intensive care patients (n = 10) who were treated for at least 24 h in tertiary ICUs.MethodsThe data were obtained through semi‐structured interviews based on an interview guide. A qualitative content analysis using an inductive approach was performed.ResultsThe analysis resulted in three main themes: (a) inadequate sleep at night; (b) factors negatively affecting night‐time sleep; and (c) patient expectations for improved night‐time sleep. Night‐time sleep of patients treated in intensive care were determined to generally have inadequate and be interrupted. Patients associated the cause of this situation with the physical environment conditions in the ICU, loud noises made by health employees and emotional reactions. It was stated that some physical environment changes that can be made in ICUs and psychological support will positively affect sleep.ConclusionsIntensive care patients may not have quality night‐time sleep because of multifactorial reasons. Noise in the ICU is a significant factor preventing patients from sleeping. In addition to reorganization of the physical environment to ensure adequate sleep, there is a need for an integrated approach dealing with patients' feelings and concerns.Relevance to Clinical PracticeEach patient has their own unique sleep pattern. To ensure effective management of sleep problems, health professionals should organize care and physical conditions in line with guidelines and create patient‐specific night‐time sleep management programmes.