Nurse practitioner-led, virtually delivered, motivational enhancement and device support intervention to improve CPAP adherence: A feasibility randomized control trial.

Background: Evidence indicates continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy improves several important patient-centered outcomes. However, adherence to this safe and effective intervention remains poor.

Objectives: Assess nine feasibility outcomes of a nurse practitioner-led, virtually delivered motivational enhancement and device support (MENDS) intervention to improve CPAP adherence in adults with Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA). Secondary aims compared the changes in CPAP adherence to patient-reported outcomes, patient activation, and perceived self-efficacy.

Methods: This two-group feasibility randomized controlled trial included 29 patients newly diagnosed with OSA and prescribed CPAP therapy. The study was conducted from July 2020 through December 2021 at a midwestern sleep/pulmonary clinic. Participants were randomized to the MENDS intervention group (n=14) (30-45 minute interactive tele-discussions on weeks 2, 4, 6, and 8) or to the usual care (n=15) group. Feasibility, patient-reported outcomes, and behavioral constructs were measured at baseline and 12 weeks. CPAP adherence was measured weekly.

Results: Feasibility of the MENDS sessions was demonstrated (56 sessions offered, 52 completed remotely without technical difficulties) with minimal participant attrition and no missing CPAP data. Generalized linear mixed models showed no statistically significant time-by-group interactions on adherence or patient-reported outcomes. Higher adherence and lower CPAP apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) scores were associated with declines in pre- to post-changes in fatigue and sleep disturbance. Lower CPAP AHI scores were associated with pre- to post-decreases in PROMIS Anxiety scores (r=.532, p=.005).

Conclusion: The virtual MENDS intervention was feasible. Higher CPAP adherence and lower AHI levels led to positive improvements in fatigue, sleep disturbance, and anxiety.