Medical opinions on a cutting-edge application for the monitoring and administration of sedatives and opioids: Potentials and challenges

Abstract

Background: The formulation of opioid medications is becoming increasingly common among hospitalized patients, due to the need for pain control or sedation during procedures. This represents the possibility of an increase in adverse events, as demonstrated by monitoring through the Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS). The need for tools that unify information search and provide easy access for physicians is becoming more important. Thus, it is essential to assess the medical needs for information when using technological tools that can support clinical practice. Objective: To characterize the main pharmacological and pharmaceutical needs of critical care physicians for the management of adult patients when administering sedative and/or opioid analgesic medications. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted by collecting surveys through Google Forms between October 1, 2022, and December 31, 2022. Critical care physicians from Clínica Universidad de La Sabana from Chía and Clínica Nueva from Bogotá, treating adult patients, participated in the study. Results: 95% of the respondents considered the use of technological tools necessary for support during their workday. Most respondents reported that these tools were helpful for information search regarding dose adjustments of sedatives and opioid analgesics, especially in cases of renal disease, dose calculations for rotation and titration of opioids. Conclusions: The study highlights the need for the development of technological tools to support medical services in the safe use of sedative and opioid analgesic medications. The evaluation of specific pharmacological and pharmaceutical knowledge related to this group of medications is crucial.