Assessment of Nurse Risk for Sleep Apnea Using an Online Tool

OBJECTIVES: Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a significant medical and social problem with worldwide importance. The following research article aims to demonstrate that nurse involvement can contribute to the identification of OSA risk using an online survey. METHODS: For the study, an online questionnaire was developed comprising 15 questions focused on the main symptoms of sleep apnea. The survey is intended for patients aged 30 and older, regardless of sex. The survey card was posted online for 1 month. RESULTS: According to the International Classification of Sleep Disorders, there are over 100 disorders. Insufficient and poor-quality sleep can cause several health disorders: fatigue, inability to concentrate, irritability, changes in metabolism, sexual disorders, depression, and anxiety. Sleep apnea is often characterized by loud snoring followed by periods of breathing cessation. Eventually, the decrease or pause in breathing signals the person to wake up, and the awakening is accompanied by loud snoring or gasping. The nurse developed an algorithm/protocol to determine the risk of OSA and to specify the professional behavior she should have toward the patient. CONCLUSIONS: Nurses can administer the online survey and, if there is an established risk for OSA, refer patients to sleep medicine specialists for investigation and treatment, following a developed algorithm/protocol. Sleep apnea is a complex medical problem, and the nurse can be part of the team.