title: The importance of sleep.
abstract: Sleep is a complex function which nurses need to understand if they are to help patients to avoid sleep problems, in short- or long-term care settings. This article sets out the background anatomy and physiology behind sleep and the nurse's role in promoting sleep. It also explains the importance of nurses understanding sleep and sleeplessness in the broader context of health care.
authors.affiliation: Rotherham Priority Health.
authors.forename: M
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Rodéhn
mesh_terms: D006293:Health Promotion / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D009732:Nursing Care / Q000379:methods*; D012890:Sleep / Q000502:physiology*