Author Question: A patient complains of insomnia and daytime fatigue. What is the first action the nurse should take ... (Read 93 times)

SGallaher96 · **on:** Jun 25, 2018

A patient complains of insomnia and daytime fatigue. What is the first action the nurse should take in addressing the patient's concerns?

a. Question the patient about the use of over-the-counter (OTC) sleep aids.
b. Suggest that the patient decrease intake of caffeine-containing beverages.
c. Advise the patient to get out of bed if unable to fall asleep in 10 to 20 minutes.
d. Recommend that the patient use any prescribed sleep aids for only 2 to 3 weeks.

Question 2

A patient with sleep apnea who uses a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) device is preparing to have inpatient surgery. Which instructions should the nurse provide to the patient?

a. Remind the patient to take the CPAP device to the hospital.
b. Plan to schedule a nighttime polysomnography (PSG) study before surgery.
c. Discourage the patient from requesting pain medication while hospitalized.
d. Call the hospital to ensure that mechanical ventilation will be available for the patient.

AISCAMPING · **Reply #1 on:** Jun 25, 2018

Answer to Question 1

ANS: A
The nurse's first action should be assessment of the patient for factors that may contribute to poor sleep quality or daytime fatigue such as the use of OTC medications. The other actions may be appropriate, but assessment is needed first to choose appropriate interventions to improve the patient's sleep.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: A
The patient should be told to take the CPAP device to the hospital if an overnight stay is expected. Many patients will be able to use their own CPAP equipment, but hospital policy should be checked to make sure it can be used. Patients should be treated for pain and monitored for respiratory depression. Another PSG is not required before surgery. There is no need to call the hospital if the patient takes the CPAP device to the hospital.