American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) Certification Practice Exam

What method is used to determine adherence to CPAP therapy?

1. Patient interviews

2. Downloading and reviewing data from the CPAP device

3. Physician assessments

4. Home sleep studies

The correct answer is: Downloading and reviewing data from the CPAP device

The method used to determine adherence to CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) therapy is by downloading and reviewing data from the CPAP device. This approach is considered the most objective and accurate way to assess compliance, as modern CPAP machines are equipped with built-in data recording capabilities. These devices track hours of usage, pressure settings, and apnea events while on therapy. This data provides clinicians with precise information regarding how consistently and effectively a patient is using the CPAP machine, allowing for tailored management and education concerning treatment adherence. Relying solely on patient interviews, physician assessments, or home sleep studies can introduce subjective biases or inaccuracies, as these methods may not provide concrete evidence of usage, and patients might overestimate their compliance when self-reporting. Therefore, downloading and analyzing device data offers clear, quantifiable insights into a patient's adherence to therapy.