Care Manager Certification Practice Exam

Central sleep apnea (CSA) occurs when the brain fails to send the appropriate signals to the muscles that control breathing. Among the listed conditions, opioid overdose is particularly significant in fostering CSA because it depresses the central nervous system and can impair the brain's ability to regulate breathing.

Opioids can significantly reduce respiratory drive, leading to periods where the person may stop breathing altogether during sleep. This lack of respiratory effort is characteristic of central sleep apnea and distinguishes it from obstructive sleep apnea, where physical blockages (like those caused by enlarged tonsils or obesity) affect airflow despite ongoing respiratory effort.

Understanding the impact of opioid overdose on central nervous system function is crucial for recognizing potential contributors to CSA, especially in populations that may be using opioids for pain management or in cases of overdose. This is an important aspect of care management, emphasizing the need for comprehensive patient education and monitoring for individuals at risk.