Date of Award

Fall 12-2015

Degree Name

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

Committee Chair

Dr. Patsy Anderson

Committee Chair Department

Nursing

Committee Member 2

Dr. Vicky Stuart

Committee Member 2 Department

Nursing

Committee Member 3

Dr. Janie Butts

Committee Member 3 Department

Nursing

Abstract

Universally, anesthesia providers are expected to be knowledgeable, astutely responding to clinical challenges while maintaining a prolonged vigilance for administration of safe anesthesia and critical care. A fatigued anesthetist is the consequence of cumulative acuity manifesting as decreased motor and cognitive powers. This results in patient harm, impaired judgement, late and inadequate responses to clinical changes, poor communications, and medical errors. With increased expectations and medical-legal claims, anesthesiologists work to provide efficient and timely services, but are rendered sleep deprived themselves. It is the right time to address the issue of the health of anesthesia providers and the profession. The implications of sleep deprivation on patient safety are profound and preventive strategies are essential. The governing bodies of anesthesia providers must ensure mandatory practices to prevent the adverse outcomes of fatigue related errors and patient compromise.

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