A client is describing their recent experiences to a nurse. The client reports having difficulty falling asleep and feeling unrefreshed after sleep. Additionally, the client mentions mood changes and headaches. Which of the following statements by the client align with the symptoms of sleep and wakefulness disorders?

Choice A rationale:

The goal for a patient with insomnia is to reduce daytime sleepiness and fatigue, not increase them. Therefore, aiming for the patient to report increased daytime sleepiness and fatigue would be counterproductive to the treatment of insomnia.

Choice B rationale:

A variable sleep schedule might worsen insomnia symptoms. Consistency in sleep timing is important to regulate the body's internal clock. Introducing variability in the sleep schedule could disrupt the circadian rhythm and exacerbate sleep difficulties.

Choice C rationale:

Using caffeine-containing beverages to improve alertness during the day contradicts the goal of treating insomnia. Caffeine is a stimulant that can interfere with sleep and exacerbate insomnia symptoms if consumed later in the day.

Choice D rationale:

The correct choice, this goal is appropriate for a patient with insomnia. It focuses on ensuring that the patient understands the available treatment options for sleep disorders. Educating the patient about treatment options empowers them to make informed decisions about their care. Treatment options may include lifestyle modifications, behavioral therapies, and, in some cases, pharmacological interventions. Informed patients are more likely to engage in effective self-management and collaborate with healthcare providers to develop an individualized treatment plan.

Choice A rationale:

Stress can significantly impact sleep patterns. Chronic stress can lead to difficulties falling asleep, staying asleep, or experiencing restorative sleep. The release of stress hormones like cortisol can disrupt the natural sleep-wake cycle, making it harder to achieve and maintain quality sleep.

Choice B rationale:

Genetic predisposition can influence an individual's susceptibility to sleep disorders. Genetic factors may play a role in conditions like narcolepsy, restless legs syndrome, and sleep apnea. However, it's not a lifestyle factor; rather, it's a biological factor affecting sleep.

Choice C rationale:

Height is not a lifestyle factor that directly influences sleep patterns. There is no established connection between an individual's height and their sleep-wake cycle or the occurrence of sleep disorders.

Choice D rationale:

Smoking can disrupt sleep patterns. Nicotine is a stimulant that can interfere with falling asleep and staying asleep. Smokers often experience sleep disturbances, such as difficulty falling asleep and fragmented sleep. Therefore, smoking is a relevant lifestyle factor affecting sleep.

Choice E rationale:

Enhanced physical strength is not a lifestyle factor that affects sleep patterns. While physical activity can impact sleep, this specific factor does not have a direct correlation with sleep-wake disorders.