Sleep Disturbances and External Stimulation and the Effects on the infants in the NICU

Infants struggle to have adequate sleep in the NICU due to exposure to stimuli that could disrupt and shorten their sleep. During sleep, the infant’s body is working to develop brain functions, maintain physical health, and help with growth and development. Because sleep is a crucial aspect of life, especially during the early stages of life, many interventions are implemented to increase the quality of sleep these infants receive like cycled lighting.