
Sleepsense: Implementing SleepSense Technology for Hospitalized Older Adults
The team aims to explore the feasibility and acceptability of SleepSense® technology in an in-patient subacute geriatric and psychiatric setting. SleepSense® is a non-wearable, unobtrusive sleep monitoring sensor, different from the currently in place visual checks and nursing documentation, which uses a Somnolog. This study will be guided by the Collaborative Action Research framework, ensuring a comprehensive approach.
The findings from this study will provide insight as to whether a sleep sensor placed under the foot of the bed is an effective, objective, and feasible means of sleep monitoring. This study aligns with the VCH collaborative care model to facilitate improved patient care and outcomes.
Research Design
The study will be guided by Collaborative Action Research (CAR). It will be conducted in 24 months in 3 phases, between 3 and 4 months each.
Phase 1: 16-20 frontline staff and 1-4 patient partners and family partners will be recruited; a pre-intervention focus group to review current sleep monitoring practices and determine gaps in data. Complete ethics application.
Phase 2: Industry partner to train frontline staff and demonstrate the use of the Sleepsense bed sensor. Staff huddles of a maximum of 20 minutes, including check-ins and follow-ups from the knowledge translation team.
Phase 3: 12-16 patients will be recruited. Sleepsense bed sensors and monitoring computer installed and integrated with nurse call system. Patient participants will be interviewed weekly and assisted in completing Richards-Campbell Sleep Questionnaire (RCSQ). A post-intervention focus group will be conducted and will only involve the front-line staff, patient partner and family partner.
Interested in learning more? Interested in taking part in the study as a staff participant?
Please contact any of the/the following contacts:
Co-investigator/primary contact: Cromwell G. Acosta, RN, at cromwell.acosta@vch.ca
Co-investigator: Joanna Lawrence, PT, at joanna.lawrence@vch.ca, or at 604.827.0891
Co-investigator: Michelle Towell, OT, at michelle.towell@vch.ca, or at 604.362.1823