The patient tells the home health nurse that he has flung himself out of bed three times in the course of a violent nightmare. What sleep disorder does the nurse suspect?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The patient's description suggests they may be experiencing REM sleep disorder, which is characterized by the loss of muscle atonia during REM sleep. This can lead to physical movements and acting out of dreams during sleep. Myoclonus and restless legs syndrome may also cause movement during sleep, but they do not involve specifically violent nightmares. Epilepsy involves seizures, which are not described in this scenario.

The Patient Tells the Home Health Nurse That He Has