(Select all that apply):. A nurse is assisting a patient with implementing good sleep hygiene practices. Which of the following actions would the nurse recommend to the patient? Select all that apply.

Choice A rationale:

Sleep deprivation can indeed lead to infertility, making this statement accurate. Chronic sleep deprivation can disrupt hormonal balance, including the production of reproductive hormones such as luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). These hormones play a vital role in the menstrual cycle and fertility. Additionally, sleep deprivation can affect the body's stress response, leading to increased levels of cortisol, which can further impact fertility.

Choice B rationale:

"Sleep deprivation has no effect on libido" is an incorrect statement. Sleep deprivation can negatively affect libido or sexual desire. Hormonal imbalances caused by inadequate sleep can lead to decreased sexual interest and diminished sexual function.

Choice C rationale:

"Sleep deprivation can enhance testosterone production" is an incorrect statement. Sleep deprivation is associated with decreased testosterone levels. Testosterone, a key hormone for both men and women, is primarily produced during deep sleep. Sleep deprivation disrupts the body's hormonal balance, leading to lower testosterone levels, which can impact sexual function.

Choice D rationale:

"Sleep deprivation is linked to improved menstrual cycles" is an incorrect statement. Sleep deprivation is more likely to disrupt menstrual cycles rather than improve them. Irregular or absent menstrual cycles can result from hormonal disturbances caused by inadequate sleep. Hormonal imbalances can lead to conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and menstrual irregularities.

Choice A rationale:

Exercising vigorously right before bedtime is not a recommended sleep hygiene practice. It can actually stimulate the body and make it harder to fall asleep. Exercising earlier in the day is more beneficial for improving sleep.

Choice B rationale:

Avoiding exposure to bright light at night is a crucial sleep hygiene practice. Bright light, especially the blue light emitted by screens, can suppress the production of melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep-wake cycles, making it harder to fall asleep.

Choice C rationale:

Using the bed for activities other than sleep can disrupt the association between the bed and sleep. It's important to create a mental connection between the bed and sleep to improve sleep quality. Engaging in activities like watching TV or working in bed can interfere with this association.

Choice D rationale:

Maintaining a regular bedtime and rising time helps regulate the body's internal clock and improves sleep quality. Consistency in sleep schedule reinforces the body's natural circadian rhythms, making it easier to fall asleep and wake up at the desired times.

Choice E rationale:

Checking the phone frequently during the night is not a recommended sleep hygiene practice. The blue light emitted by phones can suppress melatonin production and disrupt sleep. Additionally, waking up to check the phone can fragment sleep and make it harder to achieve restful sleep.