Comparison of sleep quality between outpatient and hospitalized children with respiratory tract dysfunction

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Sleep Medicine
• Respiratory Health
• Quality of Life Studies

Background:

• Sleep quality is crucial for child development and recovery.
• Respiratory tract dysfunction can significantly impact sleep patterns in children.
• Understanding environmental influences on sleep is vital for effective pediatric care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the impact of hospitalized versus outpatient settings on sleep quality in children with respiratory tract dysfunction.
• To identify specific sleep disturbances experienced by these children in different care environments.

Main Methods:

• A descriptive correlational study involving 250 children with respiratory tract dysfunction.
• Data collected from hospitalized (n=125) and outpatient (n=125) settings.
• Utilized a validated questionnaire assessing sociodemographics, clinical diagnosis, and sleep quality.

Main Results:

• Children in outpatient settings reported significantly more negative effects on sleep quality compared to those hospitalized.
• The mean sleep quality score in outpatient settings was M ± SD = 1.322 ± 0.1522.
• Outpatient settings were associated with greater difficulties in falling asleep and waking up.

Conclusions:

• Sleep quality in children with respiratory tract dysfunction is generally average in both settings.
• Outpatient environments present greater challenges to sleep onset and maintenance for these children.
• Healthcare providers should consider environmental factors affecting sleep in pediatric respiratory care.