A nurse is teaching a patient with sleep pattern disturbance about cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) techniques. Which statement accurately describes CBT for sleep disorders?

Choice A rationale:

CBT techniques do not involve the use of drugs. Instead, they are focused on cognitive and behavioral strategies to address sleep-related issues without medication.

Choice B rationale:

This choice accurately represents the core principle of cognitive-behavioral therapy for sleep disorders. CBT aims to identify and address the underlying psychological factors, thoughts, and behaviors that contribute to sleep problems. It emphasizes techniques like cognitive restructuring, relaxation training, and sleep scheduling to improve sleep patterns.

Choice C rationale:

While relaxation training and imagery training can be components of CBT for sleep disorders, they are not the only focus. CBT encompasses a broader range of strategies, including cognitive restructuring and sleep education, to target the root causes of sleep disturbances.

Choice D rationale:

CBT techniques are effective on their own and do not require the use of medication treatments. In fact, CBT is often recommended as a first-line treatment for insomnia and other sleep disorders due to its efficacy without the potential side effects of medications.

Choice A rationale:

Medication (short-term use) is not the commonly recommended intervention for a sleep disorder characterized by excessive daytime sleepiness despite adequate nighttime sleep. While medication might be considered in certain cases, it is usually not the first-line treatment option for this condition. Medications can have side effects and may not address the underlying causes of the sleep disorder.

Choice B rationale:

Relaxation techniques can be helpful for improving sleep quality and managing stress, but they are not typically the primary intervention for excessive daytime sleepiness despite adequate nighttime sleep. Relaxation techniques focus more on promoting relaxation and reducing stress, which might indirectly improve sleep patterns but may not directly address the specific disorder described.

Choice C rationale:

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is commonly recommended for a sleep disorder characterized by excessive daytime sleepiness despite adequate nighttime sleep. CBT for insomnia (CBT-I) is an evidence-based approach that addresses the psychological and behavioral factors contributing to sleep disturbances. It focuses on improving sleep hygiene, modifying negative thought patterns about sleep, and establishing a consistent sleep schedule. CBT has shown effectiveness in treating sleep disorders without the potential side effects of medications.

Choice D rationale:

Avoiding alcohol and caffeine is generally a good practice for promoting healthy sleep, but it alone is not the commonly recommended intervention for a sleep disorder characterized by excessive daytime sleepiness despite adequate nighttime sleep. While avoiding alcohol and caffeine can help prevent sleep disturbances, it might not fully resolve the underlying disorder causing excessive sleepiness.