An Evidence-Based Guideline for Patients Receiving Sedation with Obstructive Sleep Apnea During the Intraoperative Period

Abstract

Patients with obstructive sleep apnea who receive sedation intraoperatively are at an underestimated risk of serious injury such as anoxic brain injury, difficult intubation, and death throughout their perioperative period. A standardized, intraoperative guideline for patients with obstructive sleep apnea can be utilized to decrease risk for anesthesia-related complications. Evidence based strategies have the potential to reduce recovery time, improve resource utilization, lower costs, and most importantly, decrease risk for harm to patients. The goal of this DNP project is to develop a clinical practice guideline using best practices for anesthesia providers caring for patients with OSA