Sleep nursing actigraphy for monitoring sleep and wake patterns

What is actigraphy?

Actigraphy is a method of monitoring movement over several days or weeks.

What do we record?

The actiwatch will continuously record body movements, light levels and sleep and is worn like a wristwatch. This does not hurt.

What are we looking for?

We are looking to see what your child’s sleep and wake pattern looks like over 1 to 2 weeks.

When does my child need to start wearing the actiwatch?

Your child needs to start wearing the watch on the day that it has been given to you. The actiwatch has been pre-programmed to start on the collection date.

Does my child need to take the actiwatch off for anything?

Your child needs to wear the actiwatch all day and all night for the length of the study.

Is the actiwatch waterproof?

The actiwatch is waterproof so can be worn for baths, showers and swimming.

How does my child wear the actiwatch?

The actiwatch can be worn on your child’s non-dominant hand (this is the hand they do not write with).

Fasten the strap so that the watch is comfortable and wear it all day and all night.

Do I need to do anything when my child is wearing the actiwatch?

Whenever your child gets into bed to try and sleep, press the button on the front of the actiwatch. Press it again when your child gets out of bed in the morning (a light will flash once when the button has been pressed).

What happens if I forget to press the marker button on the front of the actiwatch?

The actiwatch will still record when your child is asleep or awake but it is helpful to give us as much detail as possible about your child’s sleep. This is a useful marker to show bedtime and wake up time for clinical staff.

What is the sleep diary for?

We have also given you a paper sleep diary. Please fill this in during the time that your child wears the actiwatch. This will help us work out your child’s sleep and wake patterns. You can also use the ‘comments page’ at the back of the sleep diary to write down any special events such as when the watch is removed, holidays, weekends and so on.

What do I do if my child is reluctant to wear the actiwatch?

The actiwatch gives us important sleep information and can help with the management of your child’s sleep. Where possible we advise that you encourage your child to wear it. If you are experiencing any problems, please contact the team for support on the contact number below.

How do I return the actiwatch?

When you collect the actiwatch you will be given a return date to bring the actiwatch back to the Sleep House. A member of the sleep nursing team will send you a reminder before the return date.

What happens next?

Once you have returned the actiwatch, the information is downloaded and analysed by the Sleep Nurses. Your results will be discussed in your Nurse-led clinic appointment and a letter will be sent to your doctor.