Educating Nurses in Sleep Screening, Brief Intervention, and Referral for Treatment

Abstract

Background: Poor sleep is an unrecognized problem among cancer survivors that affects quality of life. However, screening for sleep disorders is not routine in cancer care. To fill this gap, a self-paced online training program was designed for RNs to screen patients for sleep disturbance and provide brief intervention or referral for treatment (Sleep-SBIRT). Method: A three-phase evaluation pilot study included the following steps: (a) develop an online training program with in situ simulation; (b) implement the program with RNs at a comprehensive cancer center; and (c) evaluate module and quiz completion rates and focus group thematic analysis. Results: Of the 22 RNs participating, 17 completed online modules and in situ simulation. The RNs were satisfied ( M = 4.74/5, SD = 0.42) and self-confident ( M = 4.45/5, SD = 0.45) with the learning. Focus group themes were learning new knowledge, learning online effectively, applying learning to in situ simulation, and intending to implement. Conclusion: The RNs gained knowledge applying Sleep-SBIRT, but future larger studies are warranted. [ J Contin Educ Nurs. 2024;55(8):387–392.]