Title:Entrainment of the Human Circadian Clock to the Light-Dark Cycle and its Impact on Patients in the ICU and Nursing Home Settings
Volume: 21
Issue: 24
Author(s): Hannah K. Ritchie, Ellen R. Stothard and Kenneth P. Wright
Affiliation:
Keywords:
Alzheimers, circadian medicine, intensive care unit, neonatal, patient care.
Abstract: A robust circadian timekeeping system is important for human health and well-being. Inappropriately
timed light exposure can cause circadian and sleep disruption, which has been shown to have negative health consequences.
Lighting in medical care facilities, such as the NICU, ICU, and nursing homes, is not typically controlled
and may be associated with circadian disruption observed in such settings. Cycled lighting and increased
exposure to sunlight in medical care facilities have been shown to have positive effects on patient recovery and
well-being, and expedite hospital discharge. Additional clinical research is needed to determine the optimal light
exposure timing, duration, intensity, and spectrum to best promote recovery, health and well-being in the context of
medical care.