EVALUATION OF INTRAOPERATIVE HIGH FIO2 COMPLIANCE IN COLORECTAL SURGERY PATIENTS

Surgical site infections are associated with increased morbidity, length of stay, and healthcare costs. Patients undergoing colorectal surgeries are at the highest risk for postoperative surgical site infections. A review of the current literature suggests perioperative use of a high fraction of inspired oxygen can help decrease the incidence of surgical site infections in colorectal surgery patients. A previous group of Kaiser Permanente School of Anesthesia Doctor of Nursing Practice students developed an educational module on the benefits of perioperative hyperoxia. The group implemented the module at the Kaiser West Los Angeles facility. Data collection and analysis by the current authors demonstrated no appreciable differences in anesthesia provider practice regarding intraoperative hyperoxia. Additional educational reinforcements are recommended to facilitate practice change