A sleeping patient has periodic pauses in breathing, then starts to breathe again.
The nurse recognizes this sleep pattern is consistent with:.

Choice A rationale:

Sleep influences memory. During the different stages of sleep, particularly during deep sleep (slow-wave sleep and rapid eye movement sleep), the consolidation of memories occurs. This means that sleep plays a critical role in memory function.

Choice B rationale:

Sleep influences mood. A lack of sleep or disrupted sleep patterns can lead to mood disturbances, including irritability, anxiety, and depression. Adequate sleep is essential for maintaining a stable and positive mood.

Choice C rationale:

Sleep influences cognitive function. Sleep is crucial for cognitive processes such as attention, problem-solving, and decision-making. Sleep deprivation can impair cognitive function, leading to reduced alertness and cognitive performance.

Choice D rationale:

Sleep influences the secretion of various hormones. Sleep plays a significant role in regulating hormones such as growth hormone, cortisol, and melatonin. Disruptions in sleep can lead to imbalances in these hormones, affecting various physiological processes.

Choice E rationale:

Sleep influences immune function. Adequate sleep is essential for a healthy immune system. During sleep, the immune system is actively engaged in repairing and protecting the body. Sleep deprivation can weaken the immune response, making individuals more susceptible to infections.

Choice F rationale:

Sleep influences body temperature. The body's core temperature fluctuates during the sleep-wake cycle, with the lowest point typically occurring during the night when we are asleep. This temperature regulation is essential for sleep quality and overall health.

Choice G rationale:

Sleep influences renal function. Sleep has an impact on various physiological processes, including renal function. The kidneys play a role in regulating blood pressure and electrolyte balance, which can be influenced by sleep patterns.

Choice A rationale:

Excessive NREM sleep does not cause periodic pauses in breathing. NREM (Non-Rapid Eye Movement) sleep consists of stages 1 through 4 and is characterized by a decrease in physiological activity, including a decrease in muscle tone. There is no direct association with breathing interruptions in NREM sleep.

Choice B rationale:

Insomnia is a sleep disorder characterized by difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, but it does not involve periodic pauses in breathing. It is unrelated to the symptoms described in the question.

Choice C rationale:

Narcolepsy is a sleep disorder characterized by excessive daytime sleepiness and sudden episodes of muscle weakness (cataplexy). It is not associated with periodic pauses in breathing, as described in the question.

Choice D rationale:

Sleep apnea is the correct answer. Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder characterized by repeated episodes of paused or shallow breathing during sleep. The patient may stop breathing for brief periods, then start breathing again. This pattern is consistent with the symptoms described in the question. Sleep apnea can have serious health implications and is important to recognize and address.