Oropharyngeal Humidification After Extubation on Thirst

Plain-language summary

In patients who have undergone endotracheal intubation following cardiac surgery, symptoms such as thirst, dysphagia (difficulty swallowing), restlessness, nausea, and vomiting are frequently observed, and these conditions negatively affect the patients' overall comfort. Especially in the post-intubation period, dryness in the mouth and throat, an intense feeling of thirst, and difficulty swallowing can lead to feelings of suffocation, helplessness, fear, and anxiety in patients. Effective management of these symptoms is critically important both for accelerating the recovery process and for increasing patient satisfaction. Traditionally, methods such as moistening the mouth with a cotton swab have been used to relieve complaints like thirst and dry mouth. However, these practices are often insufficient and have limited effectiveness in increasing patients' comfort. In recent years, the use of oropharyngeal sprays has emerged as an innovative and effective approach to alleviate symptoms such as thirst and dry mouth. In a randomized controlled trial conduct, it was shown that a spray-based oropharyngeal moisturizing program significantly reduced the severity of thirst and discomfort in patients who underwent intubation after cardiac surgery. Thirst and discomfort scores were found to be significantly lower in the spray-applied groups compared to the control group, and no significant difference was observed between the groups in terms of dysphagia frequency or adverse events. Similarly, studies conducted in different surgical and intensive care populations have shown that applications of cold water or cold saline sprays significantly reduce complaints of thirst and dry mouth, increase patient comfort, and are safe to use. Additionally, it has been reported that alternative approaches such as menthol lozenges or aromatherapy also have positive effects on thirst, nausea, and comfort after cardiac surgery. Examining the effects of oropharyngeal sprays and similar practices on parameters such as thirst, dysphagia, discomfort, nausea, vomiting, and overall comfort in patients who are intubated after cardiac surgery may contribute to the development of innovative and effective approaches in patient care. Integrating such practices into postoperative care protocols carries significant potential for increasing patient comfort and supporting the recovery process. This randomized controlled study aims to investigate the effects of oropharyngeal humidification after extubation on thirst, pain, and anxiety in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass surgery.

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