Section 6: Supportive Care

Front 1

What three factors create safe and effective sedation for a patient?

Back 1

1. Selecting the most appropriate drug fir the nature of the procedure.
2. Using the lowest effective drug dose.
3. Using the fewest number of drugs necessary

Front 2

Define minimal level of sedation.

Back 2

A drug-induced state during which patients respond normally to verbal commands; although cognitive function and coordination may be impaired, ventilatory and cardiovascular functions are unaffected.

Front 3

Define moderate level of sedation.

Back 3

A drug-induced depression of consciousness during which patients respond purposefully to verbal commands, either alone or accompanied by light tactile stimulation. No intervention is required to maintain a patent airway and spontaneous ventilation is adequate. Cardiovascular function is usually maintained.

Front 4

Define deep level of sedation.

Back 4

A drug-induced depression of consciousness during which patients cannot be easily aroused but respond purposefully after repeated verbal or painful stimulation. Patients may require assistance in maintaining a patent airway and spontaneous ventilation may be inadequate. Cardiovascular function is usually maintained; deep sedation may be accompanied by partial or complete loss of protective airway reflexes.

Front 5

What are the most serious complications of sedation?

Back 5

- Airway compromise and respiratory depression (resulting in airway obstruction)
- hypoventilation, hypoxemia and apnea
- hypotension and cardipulmonary arrest may result from failure to recognize and treat respiratory complications
- Seizures and allergic reactions are rare

Front 6

What are the general monitoring guidelines for a patient undergoing sedation?

Back 6

- Continuous monitoring of 02 SAT
- Heart rate
- Intermittent monitoring of respiratory rate
- blood pressure
- head position for airway patency during the procedure and until the child has fully recovered from sedation