Sleep Disturbance Among Nurses in Al-Dakhiliyah Governorate, Oman

Nurses are at high risk of insomnia due to demanding schedules and psychosocial stressors. We investigated the prevalence, severity, and predictors of insomnia among nurses working in Al-Dakhiliyah Governorate, Oman.

A cross-sectional survey of registered nurses (n=271) used a demographic/work-related questionnaire and the 7-item Insomnia Severity Index (ISI). Descriptive statistics, t-tests/ANOVA, and multiple linear regression were used (α=0.05). An online link was sent to the nurses, directing them to a Google Forms survey. The form included an informed consent section, a brief explanation of the study, and a statement emphasizing the anonymity of their responses.

Clinically significant insomnia (ISI≥15) affected 24.0% of nurses, while 33.6% had subthreshold insomnia. Mean ISI was 9.46±6.30 (subthreshold range). In adjusted models (R²=0.253; adjusted R²=0.152), two independent predictors remained significant: nationality (non-Omani lower vs Omani; B=-2.7, p=0.028) and presence of medical illness (B=4.32, p<0.001). Night shifts were highly prevalent (84.1%) but not independently associated with ISI. The most severe ISI item was dissatisfaction with recent sleep.

Insomnia burden among nurses is substantial. Addressing co-morbid medical conditions and culturally informed stressors among Omani nurses should be prioritized. Multimodal programs (sleep hygiene, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I), fatigue management, optimized scheduling) are recommended.