Degree Name

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

Document Type

Major Paper

School

School of Nursing

Department

Nursing

Date of Original Version

11-29-2018

Abstract

Postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) is a complication that affects up to 30% of the patients undergoing general surgery. This complication can be dangerous for patients, increase recovery time and decrease patient satisfaction scores. There are many different medications that have been used to prophylactically treat PONV including haloperidol. A systematic review was conducted to determine the efficacy of haloperidol as an antiemetic. Databases were searched and inclusion and exclusion criteria were applied to finalize the articles included. The PRISMA framework was used to guide the review and a total of five studies were critically analyzed. Two data collection tables were created for each article, one that illustrated the design of the study and one that illustrated the results. The CASP checklist was utilized to critically appraise each article. Finally, a cross study analysis was conducted to compare the studies. Haloperidol was studied alone and in combination with other antiemetic medications. Overall, these studies showed a decrease in PONV in patients medicated with haloperidol. Using haloperidol prophylactically, especially when utilized with multiple medications, decreased episodes of vomiting and levels of nausea. Haloperidol can be a useful and safe medication that anesthesia providers may utilize to prevent PONV. Further research is needed to study the impact on general surgery procedures and with larger samples.

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