Glucagon-like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonist-induced Delayed Gastric Emptying: An Educational Module

Background: Due to their promising profile in enhanced weight loss, reduced risk for hypoglycemia, and reduced glycated hemoglobin, GLP-1 RAs have been on the rise.1 The goal of this project is to increase providers' knowledge on GLP-1 RAs-induced delayed gastric emptying to prevent aspiration pneumonia in the adult perioperative population. Method: This was a blind quality improvement project that enabled a maximum of 10 practitioners. A preliminary survey was conducted to assess the level of awareness and utilization of gastric ultrasonography. This was followed by an online educational session and post-survey. The anesthesia providers were educated on GLP-1 RAs, and how to use gastric ultrasound to assess the presence of gastric volume contents. Results: A convenience sample of 9 pre/post assessments were obtained and analyzed. The most significant improvements in knowledge were noted in the timeframe in which Semaglutide enhances glucose and lipid metabolism (50% difference), incidence of aspiration pneumonia (30% difference), and the deadliest complication being pneumonia (20% difference). Discussion: There is a lack of specific literature on the most recent research in preventing aspiration pneumonia in adults during the perioperative period. The necessity for this initiative arose from the desire to establish the use of preoperative gastric ultrasound as a routine method for evaluating residual volume during preoperative assessments, to instill confidence in anesthesia professionals. Conclusion: Aspiration pneumonitis remains a significant and worrisome consequence related to anesthesia. Focused educational interventions can be used as an initial step to enhance knowledge and proficiency in the field of anesthesia.