Entrainment of the Human Circadian Clock to the Light-Dark Cycle and its Impact on Patients in the ICU and Nursing Home Settings

A robust circadian timekeeping system is important for human health and well-being. Inappropriately timed light exposure can cause circadian and sleep disruption, which has been shown to have negative health consequences. Lighting in medical care facilities, such as the NICU, ICU, and nursing homes, is not typically controlled and may be associated with circadian disruption observed in such settings. Cycled lighting and increased exposure to sunlight in medical care facilities have been shown to have positive effects on patient recovery and well-being, and expedite hospital discharge. Additional clinical research is needed to determine the optimal light exposure timing, duration, intensity, and spectrum to best promote recovery, health and well-being in the context of medical care.