0960 Perception of Sleep Importance in Children With Cystic Fibrosis

Abstract

Abstract Introduction Children with cystic fibrosis (CF) are known to have poor sleep efficiency and increased nighttime awakenings secondary to factors such as nocturnal cough and time spent on therapies for airway clearance. Studies have shown that children with poor lung function have a higher Pediatric Daytime Sleepiness Score (PDSS). An increase in sleep disturbance has been associated with poorer perceived health in children with CF. There have been limited studies to date that report the perception of sleep importance in CF patients. We aim to characterize the perception of sleep importance in children with CF as measured through a self-reported questionnaire and identify barriers to sleep. Methods After IRB approval, subjects with CF aged 3-17 years were prospectively recruited from routine pulmonology clinic visits (n=28, 17 male). A questionnaire was provided consisting of 35 questions regarding sleep practices, perception of sleep importance, and PDSS. Recent pulmonary function tests (PFTs) were also collected. Results The mean PDSS was 11.3, with a range of 4 to 24. The questionnaire responses were as follows: 82% of participants reported sleep as “very important” overall, 92% reported sleep being “very important” for health, and 75% reported sleep being “very important” for lung function. In addition, 39% reported airway clearance as part of their nighttime routine and 89% reported utilizing electronic screens 2 hours prior to bed. The most frequent barriers to sleep identified were technology and bedtime resistance (14% each), and homework, excitability, and vest/airway treatments (11% each). 86% of participants had at least one symptom of disordered sleep. Conclusion Screening for sleep problems in the CF population may be beneficial and may contribute to improved quality of life. Further recruitment is ongoing. Support