Prevalence and factors associated with poor sleep quality among nursing undergraduates in Sri Lanka

BACKGROUND: Poor sleep quality is common among university students. However, evidence on its prevalence and associated factors among nursing undergraduates in Sri Lankan state universities remains limited. METHODS: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 412 nursing undergraduates selected through stratified random sampling. Data was collected using a validated, pre-tested online self-administered questionnaire, which included the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and Perceived Stress Scale (PSS). Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 27. Chi-square tests and one-way ANOVA were applied, with p < 0.05 considered significant. For clarity, 95% confidence intervals were reported for prevalence estimates and group comparisons. RESULTS: The prevalence of poor sleep quality (PSQI ≥ 5) was 84% (95% Confidence Interval). Significant associations were found between sleep quality and living place, diet, electronic device use, sleep hygiene practices, medical conditions, clinical rotation schedules, and academic stress. Most participants (65.8%) reported moderate stress levels. No significant associations were observed with credit hours, assignments, Grade Point Average (GPA), or study hours. CONCLUSIONS: Poor sleep quality is highly prevalent among nursing undergraduates in Sri Lanka and is influenced by stress, lifestyle factors, and health conditions. Interventions focused on sleep hygiene and stress reduction are recommended. CLINICAL TRIAL NUMBER: Not applicable.