Numbers and Your Nose: What Do They Mean?

Presented by: Karen Davidson, DHA, MSA, MEd., MSN, RN

Original Presentation Date: September 15, 2022

Course Description:

Breathing constitutes a fundamental aspect of our physiological well-being. However, the significance of nasal function and flow limitations often go unrecognized as a root cause of various bodily processes and diseases. Nasal obstruction, a pivotal symptom in multiple upper airway conditions, significantly impacts an individual's quality of life. While subjective questionnaires offer essential insights into presenting symptoms, incorporating objective data can substantially augment treatment decisions and improve outcomes. This session aims to acquaint participants with the foundational aspects of nasal function and resistance, elucidating the measurement tools employed to quantify nasal function and flow limitations. Participants will gain an understanding of the implications of these measurements and how to utilize the data to facilitate seamless patient care collaboration between dental and medical professionals.

Learning Objectives:

• Recognize the importance of nasal flow limitations and functional assessment in both dental and medical contexts, understanding their implications on patient care and overall health outcomes.
• Familiarize participants with a spectrum of available tools utilized for assessing and measuring nasal function and resistance throughout treatment, spanning pre-treatment, during treatment, and post-treatment phases.
• Develop an understanding of the rationale behind the collected data and its correlation with patient presentations, facilitating a more comprehensive approach to diagnosis and treatment planning.
• Acquire strategies and communication skills to effectively collaborate with dental and medical professionals, fostering interdisciplinary approaches to patient care based on objective nasal function assessments.

Speaker Bios:

Dr. Karen Davidson, with over 25 years in the medical device industry focusing on ENT and Sleep markets and 30 years of clinical experience, including service as a Flight Nurse in the US Air Force Reserves, serves as Vice President at GM Instruments, Ltd. Her expertise spans objective nasal measurements, nasal physiology, reimbursement, health economics, and health policy, showcased through publications and as a recognized adjunct faculty at Central Michigan University and Liberty University. Recognized for outstanding research on reimbursement and FDA-approved product coverage denial, she is a passionate volunteer partner with the Harrison COVID-19 Research Group. A consultant, medical advisor, speaker, and editorial board member, Dr. Davidson emphasizes collaborative care between medical and dental professionals in her presentations. She holds multiple degrees and is a member of the American College of Healthcare Executives, contributing to various publications while preparing her upcoming book on nasal function's impact on healthcare.