British journal of nursing (Mark Allen Publishing)
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Promoting an environment conductive to sleep in hospital is a challenge. Although patients may appear to sleep in hospital, it may not be refreshing or restorative. ⋯ Nurses can help their patients by understanding what influences sleep patterns and acting on this knowledge. This may include a variety of interventions, from allowing patients to carry out their own bedtime routine, to explaining to elderly people how their sleeping patterns changes with age.
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This article provides an overview of breakthrough pain in cancer patients, what causes it, current treatment options and the impact it has on individuals. It considers the importance of accurate assessment, the use of assessment tools and the growing role of nurses in managing this challenging pain syndrome. ⋯ While many advances have been made in the treatment of pain, there is still room for improvement in both the pharmaceutical and general management of the condition. Suggestions are made as to how these may be met.