DOI

10.21007/con.dnp.2025.0125

Faculty Advisor

Dwayne Accardo, DNP, CRNA, FAANA

Document Type

Poster

Publication Date

Spring 5-2-2025

Disciplines

Anesthesiology | Health and Medical Administration | Investigative Techniques | Medicine and Health Sciences | Nursing | Nursing Administration | Perioperative, Operating Room and Surgical Nursing | Pharmaceutical Preparations | Quality Improvement | Surgery

Abstract

Purpose/Background

Neuraxial anesthesia is key for pain management and comfort during surgery. While local anesthetics and opioids have notable side effects, Dexmedetomidine (DEX) offers a promising alternative. Early studies suggest DEX improves pain control, prolongs anesthesia duration, and reduces opioid-related side effects. This review explores the benefits of incorporating DEX into neuraxial anesthesia for better patient safety and comfort

Methods

This scoping literature review took place from August 2023 to April 2024, utilizing PubMed, CINAHL, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar for sources. After reviewing over 2,000 abstracts, 25 articles met the inclusion criteria, with nine selected as most relevant. Four were level-one systemic reviews and meta-analyses, while the others were level-two randomized controlled trials. The findings were compiled into an outcomes synthesis table.

Results

Despite variations in the studies, a clear conclusion emerged: using Dexmedetomidine (DEX) in neuraxial anesthesia enhances pain relief and prolongs its duration more effectively than opioid adjuncts. Patients experienced fewer opioid-related side effects, such as nausea and itching, and although hypotension occurred with DEX, its incidence was similar to that of opioids, indicating no greater risk.

Implications for Nursing Practice

Dexmedetomidine is an effective adjuvant for neuraxial anesthesia, enhancing both the quality and duration of spinal and epidural anesthesia. It also reduces some side effects associated with opioids, leading to safer and better patient outcomes.

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