A nurse is caring for a client who reports insomnia. The nurse should monitor the client for which of the following adverse effects of sleep deprivation? (Select all that apply.)
Explanation & Rationale
A. Hyperreflexia: Sleep deprivation does not result in hyperreflexia. Instead, it may cause slowed reflexes, decreased alertness, and impaired coordination rather than exaggerated reflex activity. B. Altered taste: Changes in taste perception are not commonly linked to sleep deprivation. Taste disturbances are more often related to medication side effects, chemotherapy, or neurological disorders. C. Depression: Lack of adequate sleep can negatively affect neurotransmitter regulation, leading to irritability, poor concentration, and depressive symptoms. Chronic sleep deprivation is strongly associated with mood disorders. D. Tension headaches: Sleep deprivation often leads to muscle tension, increased stress hormones, and reduced pain tolerance, all of which can contribute to recurrent tension-type headaches. E. Mood swings: Sleep loss disrupts emotional regulation, making clients more prone to irritability, frustration, and frequent mood fluctuations. This is a common manifestation seen in those with chronic insomnia.