Factors associated with insomnia in nursing students: A focus on the use of information and communication technology (ICT) devices

Objective: Since the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic, the use of information and communication technology (ICT) devices has rapidly expanded in Japanese nursing universities. Extensive use of ICT devices has been reported to be associated with insomnia. The aim of this study was to identify factors associated with insomnia among nursing students, focusing on the use of ICT devices. Methods: We conducted a web-based cross-sectional survey to collect data on demographics, lifestyle habits, ICT device use, scores on the Athens Insomnia Scale, the Japanese version of the Patient Health Questionnaire-9, and the Japanese version of the Smartphone Addiction Scale-Short Version. To identify factors associated with insomnia, multivariable logistic regression was performed using selected variables. Results: The insomnia rate among nursing students was 48%. Factors associated with insomnia were time spent using ICT devices before bedtime (odds ratio [OR]: 1.16, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.02-1.31), presence of health-related issues caused by ICT device use (OR: 1.40, 95% CI: 1.23-1.59), smartphone addiction (OR: 1.46, 95% CI: 1.17-1.83), depressive symptoms (OR: 7.1, 95% CI: 5.01-10.07), and caffeine consumption within 3 hours of bedtime (OR: 1.59-1.80). Current engagement in clinical practice was not significantly associated with insomnia. Conclusions: The prevalence of insomnia was higher among nursing students than among the general university student population. Factors associated with insomnia among nursing students included the timing—but not the duration—of ICT device use. To reduce insomnia among nursing students, it may be beneficial to create an environment where students can better understand the factors associated with insomnia and reflect on their own behaviors.