Date of this Version

12-5-2022

Document Type

DNP Project

Abstract

This quality improvement project aimed to identify anesthesia providers’ knowledge of current and alternative methods to effectively treat perioperative anxiety in the pediatric population.

Background: Pediatric perioperative anxiety is a prominent complication that anesthesia providers face daily.

Methods: A literature review was conducted utilizing PubMed, Google Scholar, and the Cochrane database to research the PICO question. A project intervention was provided to both physician anesthesiologist as well as certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNAs) that included a pre-intervention test, an interventional educational module, and a post-intervention survey. Statistical analysis was completed to assess the outcomes of the educational intervention.

Results: The majority of participants were able to identify clinical outcomes of high levels of preoperative anxiety, the most common pharmacological agent being utilized to sedate the pediatric population, and its negative side effects. Additionally, knowledge of DEX improved with all providers understanding not only its antianxiety benefits but also its analgesic properties.

Discussion: Following the educational intervention, anesthesia providers’ knowledge on the benefits and use of DEX increased. Further research on improved methods of perioperative anxiety treatment is indicated. Limitations of the study included small sample size, time restrictions, and impersonal online platform.

Keywords: Pediatrics, Intranasal DEX, Intranasal Midazolam, Oral Midazolam, Agitation, Sedation, Anxiety

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