A nurse is providing teaching to an older adult client about methods to promote nighttime sleep. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?
Explanation & Rationale
Rationale: A. Eat a light snack before bedtime: A light snack can prevent hunger from interfering with sleep and promote relaxation. Complex carbohydrates or small amounts of protein may help induce sleep without causing gastrointestinal discomfort. B. Perform exercises prior to bedtime: Vigorous physical activity before bed can stimulate the body and make it harder to fall asleep. Exercise is beneficial when done earlier in the day, ideally several hours before bedtime. C. Stay in bed at least 1 hr if unable to fall asleep: Staying in bed while unable to sleep can create negative associations with the bed and worsen insomnia. It's more effective to get up, engage in a quiet activity, and return to bed once sleepy. D. Take a 1-hr nap during the day: Long daytime naps can reduce sleep pressure at night and interfere with falling or staying asleep. If needed, naps should be limited to 20–30 minutes and taken early in the day.