The Effects of Nonpharmacological Interventions on Sleep Quality in Cardiac Surgical Patients: A Prospective Randomised Controlled Study.

Objectives: The primary objective of the current study was to evaluate whether the use of eye masks and ear plugs improves postoperative sleep quality in patients undergoing cardiac surgery. The secondary objectives include the evaluation of nonpharmacological interventions on daytime sleepiness, opioid consumption, and postoperative complications DESIGN: Prospective, randomized, controlled, parallel-group study.

Participants and setting: The study was conducted in 100 adult patients undergoing elective cardiac surgery in a quaternary care hospital.

Interventions: The intervention group received ear plugs and an eye mask from 10:00 pm to 6:00 am. The quality of sleep was assessed on the morning of the next day using the Richards-Campbell Sleep Questionnaire.

Measurements and main results: The intervention group had significantly higher Richards-Campbell Sleep Questionnaire scores (78 v 62; p < 0.05) and a significant reduction in daytime sleepiness (30% v 62%; p < 0.05) and opioid consumption (7.35 mg v 12.75 mg; p < 0.05). The incidence of postoperative atrial fibrillation, delirium, and length of stay in the intensive care unit were comparable between the groups.

Conclusions: Eye masks and ear plugs improve the quality of sleep and reduce daytime sleepiness and opioid consumption in patients undergoing cardiac surgery.