6 Sleep and Rest

Why rest and sleep matter

Rest and sleep support physical recovery, mood, attention, memory, and the ability to carry out daily activities. People differ in how much sleep they need and in their usual routines, so care should respect individual preferences while following the care plan and safety instructions.

Prepare for comfortable sleep

Ask what helps the person feel ready for sleep. When appropriate and within your role, offer help with toileting, washing, oral care, and changing into comfortable sleepwear. Help the person settle into a comfortable, safe position, and adjust pillows and bedding as requested.

Check whether the person is too warm or cold, or bothered by wet bedding, wrinkles, or tight clothing. Change or adjust items as needed. Ask about pain, shortness of breath, itching, anxiety, or other discomfort; report concerns and follow the care plan. Do not independently change medication or treatment.

Place needed items, such as the call bell, water if permitted, glasses, or a mobility aid, within safe reach. Keep pathways clear and follow fall-prevention instructions.

Support familiar routines

A calm, familiar bedtime routine can help signal that it is time to rest. Offer preferred quiet activities, such as reading or soothing music, and support usual sleep and wake times when possible. Avoid stimulating activity and bright screens close to bedtime. Follow any diet, fluid, or other clinical restrictions.

Create a restful environment

Reduce avoidable light and noise by dimming lights when safe, closing doors or curtains as appropriate, lowering television volume, and speaking quietly. Keep the room at a comfortable temperature and provide privacy. In a care setting, coordinate or cluster routine tasks when appropriate to reduce repeated interruptions, but never delay urgent care or skip prescribed observations, treatments, or safety checks. Support daytime activity and exposure to daylight when appropriate while allowing needed rest.

Recognize possible sleep disturbances

Sleep disturbances may be related to pain or illness; anxiety or unfamiliar surroundings; noise, light, or temperature; uncomfortable positioning or bedding; needing to urinate; coughing or breathing difficulty; late caffeine, nicotine, alcohol, heavy meals, or long or late naps; and some medicines or sleep disorders. Ask the person what is keeping them awake rather than assuming the cause.

Observe and report concerns

Notice and report repeated waking, difficulty falling or staying asleep, unusual daytime sleepiness, or a change from the person’s usual sleep pattern. Promptly report concerning symptoms such as new breathing difficulty, pauses in breathing, severe or worsening pain, or sudden confusion. Share persistent sleep problems with the nurse or clinician so possible causes can be assessed.

Balance rest with safe care

Promote rest by addressing comfort needs, honoring familiar routines, and reducing avoidable light, noise, and interruptions. Observe sleep patterns, ask about disturbances, maintain safety, and report concerns. Do not replace required care or independently alter treatment to protect sleep.