"PERIOPTIME" THE NEW KID ON THE BLOCK – A REFINED ENHANCED RECOVERY PROGRAM

OBJECTIVES The study explored the prevalence of chronic respiratory diseases, specifically asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), in Switzerland and globally. It addresses the economic and professional challenges posed by their treatment, particularly focusing on the increasing use of inhalation therapies. Furthermore, the objective is to highlighting the role of Nursing professionals in optimizing treatment outcomes specifically in postoperative thoracic surgery patients. METHODS A systematic literature review. Structured literature searches were conducted in CINAHL, Cochrane Library, Wiley Online Library, PubMed, and the European Respiratory Society (ERS) Publications Database. Literature selection involved assessing inclusion criteria, reviewing abstracts and methods, and applying Döring & Bortz's (2016) quality criteria. RESULTS The literature revealed that device selection and instruction significantly impact inhalation therapy. Malcompliance and therapy errors can lead to major economic burden. Therefore, interprofessional collaboration and approaches to address these factors, play a vital role. New media and electronic aids offer valuable alternatives. However, age-related technology preferences must be considered. Overall, multifaceted factors influence inhalation therapy, emphasizing the need for effective implementation and collaborative approaches in managing chronic respiratory diseases. In postoperative thoracic patients the use of most inhalation devices are specifically complex and alternatives should be considered due to a potentially high rate of ineffective drug delivery. CONCLUSIONS Nurses and Healthcare Professionals need comprehensive knowledge in selecting, assessing, applying, and monitoring inhalation therapies. Their expanded competencies can play a central role in the treatment and coordination of individuals with chronic respiratory diseases. This approach aims to enable economically viable, qualitatively high-standard inhalation therapies, which can positively influence disease trajectories. Furthermore, nursing professionals can integrate innovative approaches, such as software and electronic devices, to enhance treatment efficiency. The study concludes by highlighting the need for Nurses to actively participate in interprofessional networks, contributing their expertise to shape inhalation therapy effectively.