Certified Rehabilitation Registered Nurse (CRRN) Practice Exam

What are early symptoms of sleep deprivation?

1. Alterations in the perception of time

2. Hallucinations

3. Elevated pulse and blood pressure

4. Irritability and difficulty remembering

The correct answer is: Irritability and difficulty remembering

Early symptoms of sleep deprivation can manifest in various cognitive and emotional disturbances. Irritability and difficulty remembering are particularly notable as they are often among the first signs that an individual is experiencing a lack of restful sleep. When the body does not receive adequate sleep, it can lead to increased irritability due to impaired emotional regulation. Additionally, cognitive functions such as memory can be significantly affected, as sleep plays a critical role in memory consolidation. The brain requires sufficient rest to process information and retain memories, and without this, individuals may find it challenging to recall recent events or learn new information. This combination of emotional distress and cognitive impairment highlights how crucial sleep is for overall mental functioning and well-being. In contrast, the other symptoms, while related to prolonged sleep deprivation, typically manifest after a longer period of inadequate sleep or are more severe. Alterations in the perception of time, hallucinations, and physical symptoms like elevated pulse and blood pressure tend to occur in more advanced stages of sleep deficiency. Thus, the identification of irritability and difficulty remembering as early symptoms underscores the importance of sleep in maintaining emotional health and cognitive clarity.