Effects of Chemical Protective Clothing, Exercise, and Diphenhydramine on Cognitive Performance During Sleep Deprivation
Abstract
The cognitive performance effects of some stressors experienced in military training and combat were determined in a field experiment. The effects of wearing chemical protective clothing (CPC) at Mission-Oriented Protective Posture Level IV, walking 18 to 24 miles (29-39 km) while carrying a heavy backpack, and taking 50-mg oral doses every 6 hr. of diphenhydramine (an antihistamine) were investigated on 72 Marines during a 36-hr. sleep deprivation double-blind, placebo-controlled experiment. We administered tests that measured reaction time, spatial ability, memory, and logical reasoning. The results suggest that wearing CPC for an 11-hr period or prolonged engagement in moderate exercise produces general cognitive impairment in sleep-deprived participants. However, after repeated dosing, taking diphenhydramine has little cognitive effect. These results suggest that, if a job is near the limit of a person's cognitive abilities, performance may suffer if the person is sleep deprived and required to wear CPC or engage in prolonged, moderate exercise.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 01, 1998
- Accession Number
- ADA454599
Entities
People
- Anthony A. Sucec
- Carl E. Englund
- Diane Williams
- Mark D. Overson
Organizations
- Naval Health Research Center