Obstructive Sleep Apnea, Medico-Social Dimensions, Nursing Approaches In Prevention And Diagnosis

Abstract

Introduction: Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome is the most common respiratory disorder during sleep. Respiratory disorders during sleep are a serious medical and social problem, as they are characterized by a high degree of morbidity, comorbidity and require solid financial resources. Objective: To analyze the medical and social problems in patients with obstructive sleep apnea and to derive nursing approaches related to prevention and early diagnosis. Material and methods: The object of the present study is to study medical and social problems and their impact on quality of life in patients with obstructive sleep apnea. Literary sources concerning the problem have been studied. The analysis of the documents was made in January-March 2021. Results and Discussion: Sleep-disordered breathing impairs the quality of life and increases the risk of developing serious and dangerous health problems in millions of people around the world. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a serious, potentially damaging and life-threatening condition and as such requires the organized efforts of health professionals related to recognizing the problem, awareness of the lasting negative consequences for health, social, medical and financial losses for the individual, society and global health. The importance of prevention, diagnosis, treatment and follow-up are key in the daily lives of healthcare professionals. Good cooperation between the patient, his relatives and members of the multidisciplinary team are crucial in the success of treatment. Sleep medicine is an area that provides ample opportunities for professional performance, new competencies and responsibilities to healthcare professionals.