Nurse Anesthesia DNP Project Presentations
Increasing Serotonin Syndrome Awareness for Anesthesia Providers
Academic Level at Time of Presentation
Graduate
Major
Nurse Anesthesia
List all Project Mentors & Advisor(s)
Dr. Perlow, Dr. Thurmond
Presentation Format
Poster Presentation
Abstract/Description
Abstract
Serotonin syndrome (SS) is a rare but potentially fatal drug-induced toxidrome associated with increased serotonergic activity in the nervous system, primarily attributed to the overuse of serotonergic agents for mental health conditions. Despite the rising prevalence of SS, awareness and understanding of SS among healthcare professionals, particularly certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNAs), remain limited. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of SS education programs in enhancing anesthesia providers' awareness and management skills. Ten healthcare professionals participated in the study, including certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNAs) and Student Registered Nurse Anesthetists (SRNAs). Pre- and post-test Likert scale questionnaires measured participants' knowledge, comfort levels, and willingness to manage SS. Educational interventions included distributing information brochures on SS triggers, symptoms, and management strategies. Results indicated a significant improvement in participants' knowledge and confidence following the intervention, as evidenced by increased scores across all measured domains. Moreover, participants demonstrated enhanced readiness to utilize crisis cognitive aids during SS-related emergencies. The sustained implementation of SS education and its integration into standard protocols is vital for ensuring ongoing preparedness among anesthesia providers and enhancing patient safety in perioperative settings.
Keywords: serotonin syndrome, educational intervention, anesthesia providers, awareness programs, patient safety, perioperative care
Spring Scholars Week 2024 Event
Nurse Anesthesia DNP Project Presentations (NUR 915)
Increasing Serotonin Syndrome Awareness for Anesthesia Providers
Abstract
Serotonin syndrome (SS) is a rare but potentially fatal drug-induced toxidrome associated with increased serotonergic activity in the nervous system, primarily attributed to the overuse of serotonergic agents for mental health conditions. Despite the rising prevalence of SS, awareness and understanding of SS among healthcare professionals, particularly certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNAs), remain limited. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of SS education programs in enhancing anesthesia providers' awareness and management skills. Ten healthcare professionals participated in the study, including certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNAs) and Student Registered Nurse Anesthetists (SRNAs). Pre- and post-test Likert scale questionnaires measured participants' knowledge, comfort levels, and willingness to manage SS. Educational interventions included distributing information brochures on SS triggers, symptoms, and management strategies. Results indicated a significant improvement in participants' knowledge and confidence following the intervention, as evidenced by increased scores across all measured domains. Moreover, participants demonstrated enhanced readiness to utilize crisis cognitive aids during SS-related emergencies. The sustained implementation of SS education and its integration into standard protocols is vital for ensuring ongoing preparedness among anesthesia providers and enhancing patient safety in perioperative settings.
Keywords: serotonin syndrome, educational intervention, anesthesia providers, awareness programs, patient safety, perioperative care