Using research grade actigraphy devices as well as commercial grade Fitbits

Self-report measures of sleep and activity are frequently used with children and their parents, but are limited by inaccuracies and bias [1]. Actigraphy utilizes a watch-like or hip-mounted accelerometer device; this validated and objective tool captures sleep and movement data [2]. Actigraphy can be particularly useful in studying perioperative function in children, as it is an objective measure that can unobtrusively capture data continuously in the home or hospital setting [3]. Pediatric perioperative research has only begun to examine associations among actigraphic measures, patient characteristics, and perioperative variables.

In a recent study conducted by our lab, assessed the feasibility and acceptability of wearable actigraphy devices (Philips Actiwatch Spectrum Plus) in our post-operative settings. Results indicated that actigraphy was well tolerated and accepted by the patients, parents and clinical staff.

References:

1. Lauderdale DS, Knutson KL, Yan LL, Liu K, Rathouz PJ. Self-reported and measured sleep duration: how similar are they? Epidemiology (Cambridge, Mass). 2008;19(6):838-845.

2. Martin JL, Hakim AD. Wrist actigraphy. Chest. 2011;139(6):1514-1527.

3. Meltzer LJ, Montgomery-Downs HE, Insana SP, Walsh CM. Use of actigraphy for assessment in pediatric sleep research. Sleep medicine reviews. 2012;16(5):463-475.