Sleep problems and sleep disorders in pediatric primary care: treatment recommendations, persistence, and health care

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Lisa J Meltzer1, Melissa R Plaufcan2, Jocelyn H Thomas3

  • 1National Jewish Health, Denver, CO.

Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine : JCSM : Official Publication of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine
|April 16, 2014
PubMed

Insights

Pediatric primary care rarely documents treatment for childhood sleep disorders, which are persistent and increase healthcare use. Improved provider education and screening are crucial for addressing these common issues.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric primary care
  • Sleep medicine
  • Child health

Background:

  • Sleep disorders and problems are prevalent in children and adolescents.
  • These conditions can persist over time and impact overall health.
  • Healthcare utilization is often associated with untreated sleep issues.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To examine documented treatment recommendations for pediatric sleep disorders.
  • To assess the persistence of sleep problems in children and adolescents.
  • To investigate the link between sleep issues and healthcare utilization.

Main Methods:

  • An in-depth chart review was conducted.
  • Data included pediatric primary care patient visits from 2007 to 2010.
  • The study analyzed 750 patient records.

Main Results:

  • Only 5.2% of children with sleep disorders received a documented treatment recommendation.
  • Half of the recommendations provided were behavioral.
  • Sleep disorders were persistent in up to one-third of children.
  • Children with sleep disorders had significantly more sick visits/calls compared to those without.

Conclusions:

  • Documented treatment and referrals for pediatric sleep disorders are infrequent.
  • Given the persistence and increased healthcare utilization associated with sleep problems, screening is essential.
  • Enhanced provider education and support are needed for managing pediatric sleep disorders in primary care.
Abstract

Keywords:
Childadolescentpediatriciansleep issue

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