The nurse role in managing and treating sleep disorders.

Obstructive sleep apnoea/hypopnoea syndrome affects a significant number of middle-aged people. By causing the person with the condition to wake repeatedly during the night in order to restart breathing, it causes excessive daytime sleepiness and impairs cognitive function and driving ability. It can also adversely affect family relationships, particularly with partners whose sleep may also be disturbed. Nurses have a role in the diagnosis and management of the condition through appropriate questioning, observation, advice on lifestyle choices, and support for treatment. The article also focuses on narcolepsy.