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Factors contributing to poor sleep in critically ill patients: A systematic review and meta-synthesis of qualitative
Maria Sundstrøm1, Camilla Sverresvold2, Marianne Trygg Solberg3
1Intensive Care Nurse Specialist, Master of Nursing Sci., Lovisenberg Diaconal University College, Department for Postgraduate Studies, Oslo, Norway; Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway.
Objective:
To examine the causes of poor sleep in critically ill patients from nurses' experiences.
Review Methodology:
A meta-synthesis following the Enhancing Transparency in Reporting the Synthesis of Qualitative Research statement was conducted. Articles were searched systematically in the CINAHL, MEDLINE and Embase databases up to January 2020. Study selection and data extraction were performed by two authors working independently. Included articles were critically evaluated by both authors using the Critical Appraisal Screening Programme tool.
Findings:
The meta-synthesis resulted in four analytical themes: (1) Inherent factors of critical illness, (2) Lack of implementation of evidence-based practice, (3) Lack of relational collaboration, (4) Hospital organisation and culture.
Conclusion:
This literature review indicates that promoting critically ill patients' sleep is difficult. Evidence-based interventions should be implemented into practice in order for nurses to be able to meet the patients' needs and improve sleep. Furthermore, the team surrounding the patient must have support from the health care organisation, and a culture change is necessary to improve communication between them to reach a shared goal to improve critically ill patients' sleep.
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