How to help patients get a better night’s sleep in hospital

Sleep is vital for good health and recovery, but wards are not always the most restful places

• Getting enough sleep – ideally seven to eight hours a night – is crucial for health and recovery. Poor sleep is associated with physical illness and mood disorders
• Reports of poor sleep in hospital are high, with noisy and bright conditions on wards and patients being woken up for monitoring or ward moves
• Practical steps to help patients get a better night’s sleep and examples of good practice, from ward ‘night modes’ to bedtime routines

Getting a good night’s sleep in hospital is