0914 Retrospective Review of Sedative Use on Hospitalized Patients at Risk for OSA

Abstract Introduction There has been prevalent usage of sedatives and narcotics in the United States, specifically in the Appalachia. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) has proved to be associated with significant cardiopulmonary consequences. This study aimed to examine the effects that sedatives and/or narcotics have on the length of stay (LOS) and 6-month mortality rates of patients screened and diagnosed with OSA. Methods A retrospective analysis was conducted on hospitalized patients who were screened positive for OSA and had used some form of sedative. The patients were divided into three groups: patients with OSA and on sedatives chronically at home or in the hospital; patients with OSA not on sedatives; and controls with no OSA or use of sedatives. The variables studied included 6-month mortality rate and LOS. Demographics, comorbidity and medication information were also recorded for these patients. Results Of the patients screened from August 2019 to May 2021, 156 patients were with OSA and used sedatives, while 278 were diagnosed with OSA but no use of sedatives. There were 88 patients negative for OSA or sedatives. The patients who had OSA and used sedatives had the highest 6-month mortality rate of the three groups. Specifically, these patients had a 6-month mortality rate of 14%, compared to the other two groups, which both had 6-month mortality rates of 3%. Moreover, the patients who used sedatives had significantly longer LOS (10.06 days versus 5.97 days) than those who were diagnosed with OSA but did not use any sedative. Those without OSA had a LOS of 5.23 days. Both age-unadjusted and age-adjusted Charlson comorbidity were similar amongst all groups. Conclusion Hospitalized patients’ high risk for OSA and on sedatives have significantly higher 6-month mortality rates and LOS. To improve quality of care and healthcare utilization, practitioners should take caution when providing sedatives to patients with OSA and consider alternative therapies. To elucidate underlying mechanisms, further prospective studies would be necessary. Support (if any)