Research Symposium Program - Individual Details
5th annual Undergraduate Research Symposium, April 17, 2025
Elena Smith
BIO
Elena Smith is a Tallahassee, Florida native with clinical interests in pediatric anesthesia and regional anesthesia, and a strong passion for multimodal anesthesia. In her free time, she enjoys playing the piano, tennis, and running with her dog.
Zachary Shiver is a Thomasville, Georgia native with clinical interests in obstetric anesthesia and regional anesthesia, and a strong passion for multimodal anesthesia. In his free time, he enjoys hunting, playing sports, and spending time with friends and family.
Improving Provider Knowledge and Utilization of Intrathecal Dexmedetomidine as an Analgesic Adjunct to Spinal Anesthesia for Cesarean Sections
Authors: Elena Smith, Dr. Jason SmithStudent Major: Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice
Mentor: Dr. Jason Smith
Mentor's Department: Nurse Anesthesia Program Mentor's College: Florida State University Panama City Co-Presenters: Zachary Shiver
Abstract
Cesarean delivery commonly relies on spinal anesthesia, which may provide incomplete visceral analgesia and often requires opioid adjuncts associated with adverse effects. Intrathecal dexmedetomidine is a promising non-opioid alternative. This quality improvement project evaluated whether targeted education and improved access increased CRNA knowledge, confidence, and utilization. Following the intervention, weekly use increased from 25% to 100%, provider knowledge improved, opioid requirements decreased, spinal block onset was faster and duration prolonged, maternal comfort improved, and side effects were minimal. These findings support intrathecal dexmedetomidine as a safe, effective opioid-sparing spinal adjuvant.
Keywords: dexmedetomidine, intrathecal, spinal, analgesia, adjunct, cesarean section
Keywords: dexmedetomidine, intrathecal, analgesia, adjunct, cesarean section