Certified Rehabilitation Registered Nurse (CRRN) Practice Exam

Which intervention is recommended first for patients experiencing sleep deprivation?

1. Administering sleep medications nightly

2. Waking the patient every 3 hours instead of every 2

3. Controlling the amount of noise and stimulation during sleep

4. Assisting the patient with an exercise routine before bedtime

The correct answer is: Controlling the amount of noise and stimulation during sleep

The intervention of controlling the amount of noise and stimulation during sleep is the recommended first step for patients experiencing sleep deprivation. Creating a conducive sleep environment is crucial for promoting rest and recovery. Excessive noise or unnecessary stimulation can significantly disrupt sleep patterns and prevent a patient from reaching deeper stages of sleep, which are vital for restorative processes. By focusing on the environmental factors that influence sleep quality, healthcare providers can effectively address immediate issues of sleep deprivation. Strategies may include reducing background noise, dimming lights, and minimizing interruptions during the night. This proactive approach often leads to more effective and natural sleep improvement, as it respects the body's natural circadian rhythms and promotes relaxation. Other interventions, such as administering sleep medications, could have potential side effects and dependency issues and are typically considered after non-pharmacological approaches have been exhausted. Waking a patient every few hours may further exacerbate sleep issues rather than alleviate them. Assisting with an exercise routine before bedtime could be beneficial in some cases; however, the timing and type of exercise must be carefully considered, as vigorous activity right before sleep might hinder the ability to fall asleep. In summary, controlling environmental factors related to noise and stimulation represents a fundamental, non-invasive step that addresses the core issues of sleep deprivation and sets