Sleep disturbances in hospitalized children: a wake-up call

• DOI: 10.1007/s00431-024-05660-x
• Publication Date: 2024-07-03T05:04:08Z
• Authors: Pia Burger; Lindsay M.H. Steur; Jorinde A.W. Pold...; Jos W.R. Twisk; Robert Lindeboom; Reinoud J.B.J. Gemke
• Keywords: Sleep

Abstract Although sleep is essential for (recovery of) health, it adversely affected by hospitalization, due to disease discomfort, environmental noise, and care routines, causing reduced increased disturbances. This study evaluates factors affecting quality quantity in hospitalized children compares inpatient with at home. Using an observational, prospective design, we assessed aged 1–12 years, admitted a tertiary center, compared this home 6–8 weeks after discharge. We measured total time (TST), onset latency (SOL), wake (WASO), efficiency, awakenings, subjective quality, using actigraphy, diaries, PROMIS questionnaires. explored array of sleep-disturbing factors. Regression analyses identified key determinants patterns, while mixed linear models hospital Out 621 eligible patients, 467 were invited, 272 (58%) consented participate. Key included pain, number previous admissions, (underlying) chronic illness, environment-, staff-, disease-related Parents reported lower perceived the home, 97-min (SE 9) TST, 100-min (5) longer WASO, more difficulties falling asleep, satisfaction, awakenings. Actigraphy outcomes revealed shorter TST (20 min (6)), but better efficiency fewer awakenings hospital. Conclusion : Sleep was compromised comparison primarily disturbances related treatment, environment, staff. These findings underscore necessity potential relative simple interventions improve minimize children.