Detailed Information:
In this procedure, a combination of painkillers and sedatives are administered to the patient. The sedation is not as deep as with general anesthesia, so the patient can communicate with doctors and nurses about physical discomfort. This is important in many procedures in which the physician must rely upon feedback from the patient during the procedure. Unlike with general
anesthesia, cardiovascular and respiratory function are not impaired under conscious sedation. Quite often, however, cardiac monitoring and blood pressure
monitoring are used during conscious sedation.
Conscious sedation is used for minor outpatient surgery, including dental surgery, vasectomy, cardiac catheterization, and the repair of some bone fractures. It may also be used in diagnostic procedures, such as breast biopsy and endoscopy/colonoscopy. Perhaps the best known use of conscious sedation is the use of nitrous oxide and topical painkillers with nervous
dental patients.
Conscious sedation can be administered by Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists, anesthesiologists, physicians, and oral surgeons. One health care provider should be dedicated to monitoring the patient's condition including heart rate, oxygen levels, blood pressure, breathing, and alertness) during the entire procedure.
Patients who undergo conscious sedation generally recover quickly from the sedation. However, they may not remember the procedure because some of the medications induce amnesia of the event. Patients may also experience headache, nausea, vomiting, or unpleasant memories of the experience, although this is not common. Patients should not drive, operate heavy machinery, or make important decisions for at least 24 hours after conscious sedation.
Arrangements should be made for transportation home following the procedure.
Last updated: 08-Jul-03
