Honors College Theses

Publication Date

2024

Major

Nursing (BSN)

Document Type and Release Option

Thesis (open access)

Faculty Mentor

Mary Estelle Bester

Abstract

Introduction: Nursing school is a physically and mentally challenging commitment that can result in students sacrificing sleep and compromised sleep quality.

Methodology: A cross-sectional mixed methodology research study of Georgia Southern University’s nursing students was conducted to gauge students' self-perceived sleep habits and current and past academic performance quantified by GPA. Five respondents (whose results were excluded from the data analysis) confirmed the questions were clear and relevant.

Results and Discussion: Thirty-two (n=32) questionnaires were received, of which four were excluded from the final analysis as some questions were not answered. More than 50% of respondents said their GPA decreased since they started nursing school. Almost all the respondents reported poor sleep habits on the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). Qualitative remarks supported clinical learning, numerous tests, and the need to maintain an external job as reasons for less sleep.

Recommendations: While a limited sample size, the findings support recommendations to include more attention to the importance of sleep quality and quantity in promoting the academic performance of nursing students. Course instructors are encouraged to engage in conversation with students to explore ways in which sleep can be enhanced while keeping up with the rigorous requirements of the nursing program.

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