Effects of perioperative Midazolam administration on postoperative nausea and vomiting in patients undergoing general anesthesia: An evidence-based practice analysis

Abstract

Patients undergoing general anesthesia are at risk of developing postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) with reported incidences ranging from 30% to as high as 80% in high-risk populations. The fear of experiencing nausea or vomiting after surgery is often stated to be the number one concern of patients, even over postoperative pain. PONV is a distressing experience for patients and can lead to longer stays in the post-anesthesia care unit (PACU), prolonged time to discharge, patient dissatisfaction, and increased costs. The incidence of PONV depends on a variety of factors including age, sex, non-smoking status, use of opioids postoperatively, history of motion sickness or prior episodes of PONV. Additional non-patient related factors include laparoscopic surgery, anesthetic gases, medications, and duration of surgery.