During a CPAP titration study, if intermittent quadgemy is observed and the patient's SpO2 remains in low 90's, what should the sleep tech do?

In a CPAP titration study, observing intermittent quadgemy reflects periodic leg movements or bursts of movement, which can occur without indicating a critical deterioration in the patient's condition. If the patient's SpO2 levels remain in the low 90s but do not drop significantly, continuous monitoring is generally appropriate in this context. Most patients can tolerate SpO2 levels in the low 90s as long as they do not fall below certain thresholds or demonstrate concerning symptoms.

Continuing the study allows for further observation of the patient's response to treatment and provides a better understanding of their need for adjustments in therapy. It is essential to collect as much data as possible regarding the patient's sleep patterns, efficacy of CPAP settings, and overall comfort, which can be impacted by intermittent quadgemy. This approach also ensures that any necessary modifications to therapy can be made based on comprehensive information rather than reacting prematurely to the observed movements.

In scenarios where SpO2 levels drop significantly or the patient's condition deteriorates, other courses of action such as aiding oxygen supplementation or waking the patient might be more appropriate. However, in this case, as long as the patient's oxygen saturation is stable within acceptable limits, continuing the study allows for a more effective CPAP titration.