Evaluation of a Desensitization Program for Continuous Positive Airway Pressure –Intolerant Patients

This is a retrospective chart review evaluating the effectiveness of a nurse practitioner –implemented continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) desensitization protocol on adherence in CPAP-intolerant OSA patients. CPAP adherence (use for ≥ 4 hours/night, ≥ 70% of nights) was calculated after 90 days of CPAP desensitization. The CPAP desensitization protocol resulted in a 1-hour increase in use in one-third of the patients. Only 4 of 22 (18%) patients achieved adequate adherence. Adherence was not associated with demographic, clinical, or polysomnographic variables.

Source: The Journal for Nurse Practitioners - May 22, 2020 Category: Nursing Authors: Joseph Espiritu, Enrique Ordaz, Patricia Dettenmeier Tags: Brief Report Source Type: research