Provide support for sleep

Unit aim

This unit is aimed at those working in a wide range of settings. It provides the learner with the knowledge and skills required to establish conditions suitable for sleep and support the individual to sleep.

Outcome 1 Understand the importance of sleep

The learner can:

1. explain how sleep contributes to an individual’s well-being

2. identify reasons why an individual may find it hard to sleep

3. describe the possible short-term and long-term effects on an individual who is unable to sleep well.

Outcome 2 Establish conditions suitable for sleep

1. describe conditions likely to be suitable for sleep

2. minimise aspects of the environment likely to make sleep difficult for an individual

3. adjust own behaviour to contribute to a restful environment

4. describe actions to take if the behaviour or movement of others hinders an individual’s ability to sleep.

Outcome 3 Assist an individual to sleep

1. explain the importance of a holistic approach to assisting sleep

2. encourage the individual to communicate the support they need to sleep

3. assist the individual to find a position for sleep consistent with their plan of care

4. support the individual to use aids for sleep in ways that reflect the plan of care and follow agreed ways of working.

Outcome 4 Monitor sleep

1. establish with the individual and others how sleep will be monitored

2. record agreed observations relating to the individual’s sleep and the assistance given.

Outcome 5 Know how to access information and advice about difficulties with sleep

1. describe situations in which additional information or assistance about sleep would be needed

2. explain how to access additional information and assistance.