Evaluation of a Desensitization Program for Continuous Positive Airway Pressure–Intolerant Patients

This is a retrospective chart review evaluating the effectiveness of a nurse practitioner–implemented continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) desensitization protocol on adherence in CPAP-intolerant OSA patients. CPAP adherence (use for ≥ 4 hours/night, ≥ 70% of nights) was calculated after 90 days of CPAP desensitization. The CPAP desensitization protocol resulted in a 1-hour increase in use in one-third of the patients. Only 4 of 22 (18%) patients achieved adequate adherence. Adherence was not associated with demographic, clinical, or polysomnographic variables. A CPAP desensitization protocol for CPAP-intolerant patients can enhance adherence. A larger, multicenter, randomized controlled trial is needed to validate our findings. •A continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) desensitization program can enhance adherence in CPAP-intolerant obstructive sleep apnea patients.