According to a patient safety toolkit, released by AAAHC's Institute for Quality Improvement, use of sedatives, anesthetics and opioids as well as the stress of surgery can trigger obstructive sleep apnea symptoms at ambulatory surgery centers.
Here are five ways in which ACSs can prevent or lower the risk of obstructive sleep apnea:
1. Place patients in a semi-upright position.
2. Observe patients for oxygen desaturation and/or apneic episodes.
3. If oxygen desaturation occurs while on supplemental oxygen therapy or on preoperative continuous positive airway pressure, use non-invasive ventilation.
4. Avoid systemic opioids, if possible.
5. Patients who are noted to easily obstruct their airway when drowsy should receive extra vigilance.
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Here are five ways in which ACSs can prevent or lower the risk of obstructive sleep apnea:
1. Place patients in a semi-upright position.
2. Observe patients for oxygen desaturation and/or apneic episodes.
3. If oxygen desaturation occurs while on supplemental oxygen therapy or on preoperative continuous positive airway pressure, use non-invasive ventilation.
4. Avoid systemic opioids, if possible.
5. Patients who are noted to easily obstruct their airway when drowsy should receive extra vigilance.
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