PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

From the December 2014 issue of The Clinical Advisor: The CME/CE featured course on treatments for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) focuses on therapeutic options and obstacles related to this breathing disorder. As the treatment of choice in OSA, positive airway pressure (PAP) is discussed, with a breakdown of its various forms—continuous, bilevel, autotitrating, and expiratory—and PAP alternatives. The critical importance of weight management and smoking cessation in OSA treatment are emphasized, and the roles of other health behaviors, oral appliances, and pharmacologic and surgical treatments in OSA are addressed. Outcomes indicators that can be used to evaluate the effectiveness of a given therapy are presented in a table, as is information on when to suspect OSA, the key elements of pretreatment patient education, and troubleshooting the side effects of various OSA treatments.

INTENDED AUDIENCE

This activity has been designed to meet the educational needs of primary-care healthcare professionals who will treat persons presenting with symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea.

This activity is a approved for 0.50 / CE for Nurses; 0.25 pharmacotherapy credits. It expires Dec.9, 2015.

To take this course, go to mycme.com