The NREM SLEEP

1. THE NREM SLEEP

• Also referred to as the SLOW wave sleep, because the brain waves of the client are slower than the alpha and beta waves of an awake or alert person.
• It is a deep, restful sleep
• There is a decreased physiologic functions
• All metabolic processes are reduced

It is divided into FOUR stages:1-4

STAGE 1- the stage of very light sleep, sleeper can readily be awakened, lasts for a few minutes. The eyes tend to roll slowly from side to side, and muscle tension remains absent.

STAGE 2- the stage of light sleep, body processes continues to slow down, and lasts about 10-15 minutes. Constitutes 40-45% of TOTAL sleep!

STAGE 3-refers to a medium-depth sleep where vital signs and metabolic processes slow further because of the PARASYMPATHETIC nervous system influence. The sleeper is difficult to arouse.

STAGE 4-this is the deepest sleep or delta sleep. It is the stage where the heart rate and respiratory rate drop 20-30% below those exhibited during waking hours. This stage is thought to restore the body physically. Some dreaming may occur here. This stage may be absent in the elderly.