Sedation

Sedation

Sedation refers to decreased responsiveness to any level of stimulation; is associated with some decrease in motor activity and ideation.

Sedative

A drug that subdues excitement and calms the subject without inducing sleep, though drowsiness may be produced.

Types of Sedation

Conscious sedation

Anesthesiologist

A minimally depressed level of consciousness that retains the patient’s ability to independently and continuously maintain an airway and respond appropriately to physical stimulation or verbal command and that is produced by a pharmacological or nonpharmacological method or a combination thereof.

Deep sedation

A drug-induced depression of consciousness during which patients cannot be easily aroused but respond purposefully following repeated or painful stimulation. The ability to independently maintain ventilatory function may be impaired. Patients may require assistance in maintaining a patent airway, and spontaneous ventilation may be inadequate. Cardiovascular function is usually maintained.

Minimal sedation (Anxiolysis)

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.

Resources

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Source: Data courtesy of the U.S. National Library of Medicine. Since the data might have changed, please query MeSH on Sedation for any updates.

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