A Quality Improvement Project to Reduce Opioid Induced Respiratory Depression
Topic of Interest
CNS Improving Outcomes
Abstract
Purpose/Objective: This quality improvement project examined the effectiveness of an opioid awareness training program by decreasing naloxone rescue occurrences on a cardiac observation unit.
Description of the Project/Program: Program effectiveness was measured on recognition of opioid respiratory depression and treatment. Clinical nurses completed a Knowledge, Skills, and Attitude assessment before and after participating in an opioid awareness training program.
Results: Following participation in the training program, there was significant improvement in nurse’s ability to recognize and treat opioid related respiratory depression and a reduction in naloxone rescue doses.
Conclusion: The results of this project demonstrated that opioid awareness training improved nursing opioid- management with patients and improved opioid therapy monitoring strategies.
Implications for Nursing: This program benefits patients receiving opioid therapy by improving nursing practice of caring for this patient population.