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The Management of Chronic Insomnia in Young Children: A Survey of UK General Practice
S J Hornsey1,2, C M Hill3,4, B Stuart5
1Primary Care Research Centre, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK.
Insights
Primary healthcare professionals recognize chronic insomnia
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Sleep Medicine
- Primary Healthcare Research
- Child Psychology
Background:
- Chronic insomnia (CI) is a prevalent sleep disorder in young children, impacting child and family well-being.
- Effective management of pediatric CI is crucial within the healthcare system.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate UK primary healthcare professionals' (PCPs) beliefs, practices, and understanding of chronic insomnia in children under five.
- To identify current approaches and knowledge gaps in pediatric CI management by PCPs.
Main Methods:
- An online survey was distributed to UK PCPs, including general practitioners and practice nurses.
- The survey assessed PCPs' beliefs, current practices, and training related to pediatric CI using Likert-style and closed questions.
- Descriptive statistical analysis was employed for the collected data.
Main Results:
- A significant majority of PCPs (80%) believe CI warrants management within healthcare settings, with 66.3% advocating for primary care involvement.
- While 91.6% of PCPs endorse behavioral approaches and over 85% recommend positive bedtime routines, consultations for CI are infrequent.
- PCPs reported varied confidence and knowledge levels regarding CI management, with limited professional education on the topic.
Conclusions:
- PCPs acknowledge the significance of CI and understand basic management principles.
- There is a clear need for enhanced training and increased awareness of evidence-based resources to improve CI management in primary care settings.
Objectives:
Chronic insomnia (CI), the most common sleep disorder in young children, is associated with negative outcomes for the child and family. This study explores the beliefs, current practice, and understanding of UK primary health care professionals (PCPs) regarding CI in children under 5 years.
Method:
An online survey of UK PCPs (e.g. general practitioners (GPs), practice nurses) recruited through Clinical Research Networks. The survey consisted of Likert-style and closed- questions regarding beliefs, current practice, and training/knowledge. Data were analyzed descriptively.
Results:
Two hundred and ninety-five PCPs took part (mostly GPs, n = 244). Respondents believe that CI has a large impact on children and family. 80% agreed that CI should be managed in health care and 66.3% in primary care. However, consultations with families regarding CI were reported as infrequent. 91.6% agreed that CI should be managed with behavioral approaches, and more than 85% of respondents recommend positive bedtime routines. Respondents had varied confidence and knowledge about management. They had received little to no professional education about CI.
Conclusions:
PCPs recognize the importance of CI and understand some principles of management, though they lack training and confidence. Improved training and awareness of evidence-based resources for support would improve management in primary care.
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