What every nurse needs to know about nocturnal sleep-related eating disorder

This article provides information about a bizarre pattern of eating while asleep called nocturnal sleep-related eating disorder. People with this disorder, which has begun to be studied only recently, demonstrate features of both a sleep disorder and an eating disorder. Many clients are reluctant to initiate discussions regarding this condition because of feelings of powerlessness and shame. Other clients do not discuss their symptoms because nurses and other clinicians fail to gather accurate assessment data due to lack of knowledge within the professional community regarding the disorder. This review includes the historical background, definition of terms, and clinical manifestations of nocturnal sleep-related eating. In addition, emphasis on assessment and clinical management are included. Safety issues, the need to educate health care providers, and the role of the nurse in advocating for appropriate diagnosis, treatment, and referral are addressed.