Developing a conscious sedation program: from policy development through quality improvement.

Abstract

Conscious sedation (CS) has rapidly become a popular method of anesthesia, administered to decrease the pain and anxiety associated with operative or invasive procedures while avoiding the potential complications of general anesthesia. Intravenous conscious sedation (IVCS) is most frequently administered, but the patient can also receive CS by oral, intramuscular, or rectal routes. Although the level of sedation using CS is not as deep as general anesthesia, the patient is potentially at risk for respiratory depression. CS provides many benefits. It also places an increased burden on healthcare providers to ensure safe and competent care when this form of anesthesia is used.