Step 5 in practice - managing referrals from your team
STEP 5 IN PRACTICE
– MANAGING REFERRALS FROM YOUR TEAM
There are several red flags that your team may highlight to you after speaking to customers. It is important to recognise why these situations are considered red flags and what to do when they present, particularly when symptoms are severe and have lasted a long time.
Click on the flashcards to help you understand how to approach these red flags
This duration of symptoms may suggest an underlying issue that needs further investigation. There could be many reasons for this, ranging from lifestyle changes to medical issues.
You should:
Consider each customer on a case-by-case basis and use your professional judgement
Be aware that they should not be using diphenhydramine (Nytol) for more than 2 continuous weeks, unless instructed by their doctor.10
There is a risk of dependence when diphenhydramine (Nytol) is used inappropriately, and/or for long periods of time.10
You should:
Identify those at higher risk of dependence and educate them about the risks associated with over-use
Get to the root cause of any issues so that the sleep-stress cycle can be broken without masking the symptoms with sleep aids.
It is important that your team feel confident in using their professional judgement. Although these red flags act as guidance to indicate something more serious, the team should be conscious of their healthcare training which may include:
Recognising safeguarding issues
Identifying signs of mental or physical deterioration.
Around 60% of women experience insomnia during pregnancy, which is often caused by hormonal changes, physical discomfort or the frequent need to urinate. Sleep problems can impact a healthy pregnancy and increase the risk of depression; therefore, these women should be considered high risk.11
Remember:
Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding are not suitable for treatment with Nytol (diphenhydramine) and should be referred to their GP to ensure they receive the best care.
45% of adolescents report getting less than 8 hours of sleep per night. Hormonal changes that occur during adolescence can affect sleep/wake homeostasis, which can make it harder to fall asleep at night and wake up in the morning.12 OTC sleep medication is not suitable for children, so instead:
Offer sleep hygiene and lifestyle advice to parents and caregivers
Support and refer parents for further guidance if necessary.
There are many medical conditions and medicines that may cause sleep issues
Suffering from a medical condition can also be stressful and impact quality of life
Support customers with these conditions as sleep and stress may exacerbate symptoms or worsen their condition.