title: Exploring the complexity of sleep disturbances in persons with HIV/AIDS.
abstract: Sleep disturbances are influenced by physiological, psychological, and environmental factors. Many persons living with HIV/AIDS manifest a variety of sleep disorders. Although completion of a brief sleep assessment can be helpful to determine the presence of a sleep problem, more in-depth investigation is necessary when sleep problems are reported. This pilot work used an open-ended interview guide developed from elements of Hauri's comprehensive sleep history. A convenience sample of six HIV-positive clients was interviewed during January 1997. In addition to answering open-ended questions about sleep-wake patterns, participants completed the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index and a personal characteristics form. HIV-severity information was obtained from the medical record. A complete sleep evaluation includes a thorough history and physical assessment, with a special focus on underlying pathology and medication use such as over-the-counter drugs, vitamins and herbal products, and mood-altering substance use. Treatment plans can include instruction about a variety of cognitive behavioral strategies. The nurse plays a major role in assessing, evaluating, teaching, and referring, which can contribute to identification of strategies that can improve quality of life.
authors.affiliation: CUNY-Hunter College, Hunter-Bellevue School of Nursing, USA.
authors.forename: K M
authors.initials: KM
authors.lastname: Nokes
authors.forename: J H
authors.initials: JH
authors.lastname: Chidekel
authors.forename: J
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Kendrew
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D015928:Cognitive Behavioral Therapy; D020920:Dyssomnias / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000628:therapy / Q000821:virology*; D015658:HIV Infections / Q000150:complications*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009519:New York City; D009730:Nursing Assessment / Q000379:methods*; D012017:Referral and Consultation