Dados do Trabalho

Título

The Sleep Quality in Medical Students: Insights from a College with Active Learning Strategies

Introdução

University students face disruptions in their circadian rhythms due to long hours, stress, and emotional challenges. Medical students, in particular, are vulnerable to sleep problems, which can affect their academic performance. Sleep restriction impairs neurocognitive function and emotional self-regulation.

Objetivo

This study aims to evaluate the impact of academic routines on the sleep-wake balance of medical students.

Métodos

A cross-sectional study was conducted with medical students using a questionnaire on Google Forms®. The study employed recognized questionnaires from literature, such as the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS), and included questions on physical activity and screen use before bedtime. The research was carried out at a university with an active learning methodology located in the Northwestern region of São Paulo.

Resultados

Among the 189 students surveyed, 76.71% reported unsatisfactory sleep quality according to the PSQI. First-semester students averaged 5 hours and 45 minutes of sleep, which was higher than the second semester’s average of 5 hours and 4 minutes. From the third semester onward, there was a slight recovery in sleep averages, with a gradual increase in rest hours. In the seventh semester, there was a peak in sleep averages at 5 hours and 56 minutes. However, an analysis of variance revealed no significant difference (p=0.0605) between semesters. Sleep efficiency ranged from 87% in the first semester to 77% at the end of the course. Regarding daytime sleepiness, 75% of participants in the first semester exhibited abnormal sleepiness. In the sixth semester, 79.1% of participants also showed the same pattern. This trend was not observed in the eleventh semester, where 80% of participants displayed normal sleepiness. Additionally, 79.4% engage in physical activity and 97.4% use screens in bed before sleeping.

Conclusões

Sleep deprivation and irregular schedules have a significant negative impact on academic performance. Regular physical activity has been associated with improved sleep quality, while excessive screen use may interfere with the circadian rhythm, exacerbating sleep problems. Future research should further investigate how these habits affect sleep quality and develop effective strategies for sleep management to promote better health and academic performance.

Palavras -chave

Students, Medical; PSQI; Sleep quality