Caffeine Consumption, Sleep, and Perceived Stress of Nursing Students

Consumption of energy drinks is prevalent among college students. Studies show that caffeine consumption from energy drinks has increased over the last decade. However, there is inadequate research regarding energy drink consumption and undergraduate nursing students. The purpose of this study was to determine the caffeine consumption habits, sleep quality and quantity, and perceived stress levels of nursing students. Researchers utilized a cross-sectional online survey to compile the data of 246 nursing students between two nursing programs in the United States. Results indicated that energy drink consumers reported poorer sleep quality and higher stress levels than caffeine consumers and non-caffeine consumers. Overall, nursing students who drink energy beverages experience substandard sleep quality compared to students who consume other caffeinated beverages and non-caffeine consumers. Future studies are needed to determine why some nursing students choose energy drinks.