The phenomenon of severe sensory alteration has been studied for some twenty-five years. Sensory overload, sensory deprivation, and sleep deprivation have been identified as contributing factors in its cause. Yet, the incidence of severe sensory alteration remains high. In this paper the author suggests that Leininger's theory of cultural care advocating the use of culturally assistive, supportive, or facilitative acts in nursing care, may provide important new insights into this phenomenon.
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