Related Experiment Video

Updated: Aug 22, 2026

Halogenated Agent Delivery in Porcine Model of Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome via an Intensive Care Unit Type Device
09:36

Halogenated Agent Delivery in Porcine Model of Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome via an Intensive Care Unit Type Device

Published on: September 24, 2020

Sedation and comfort issues in the ventilated infant and child

Debbie Brinker1

  • 1Intercollegiate College of Nursing/Washington State University, 2917 W. Ft. George Wright Drive, Spokane, WA 99208, USA. debbiebrinker1@msn.com

Critical Care Nursing Clinics of North America
|September 11, 2004
PubMed

Insights

Optimal sedation and comfort are crucial for intubated infants and children. This involves using assessment tools, pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic strategies, and involving parents in care for improved outcomes.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric critical care medicine
  • Pain and sedation management

Background:

  • Intubated infants and children require specialized care to ensure comfort and minimize distress.
  • Effective sedation and comfort measures are essential components of quality care for critically ill pediatric patients.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To describe optimal approaches for sedation and comfort in intubated infants and children.
  • To highlight key elements for providing quality care to these vulnerable patients.

Main Methods:

  • Review of current literature and best practices in pediatric sedation and comfort.
  • Discussion of assessment tools, pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic interventions.
  • Emphasis on family-centered care and team education.

Main Results:

  • Integration of pain, comfort, and sedation assessment tools is vital.
  • Pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic strategies should be tailored to individual patient needs.
  • Active inclusion of patients and parents as integral members of the care team enhances outcomes.

Conclusions:

  • A multidisciplinary approach incorporating validated assessment tools, diverse therapeutic strategies, and family engagement is key to optimizing sedation and comfort.
  • Continuous education for healthcare teams, patients, and families is fundamental for effective implementation and improved patient well-being.

Related Concept Videos

Parenteral Anesthetics: Overview01:24

Parenteral Anesthetics: Overview

Intravenous anesthetics are drugs administered parenterally to induce anesthesia or sedation. Propofol is a widely used agent formulated as a 1% emulsion in soybean oil, glycerol, and egg phosphatide. It induces rapid anesthesia primarily due to its rapid distribution from the bloodstream to target tissues and is metabolized in the liver. However, it can cause significant pain on injection and hypertriglyceridemia. Fospropofol, a water-based prodrug of propofol, lacks these adverse effects.
Inhalational Anesthetics: Overview01:20

Inhalational Anesthetics: Overview

Inhalation anesthetics are drugs that induce general anesthesia upon inhalation. They work by increasing the sensitivity of GABAA receptors or inhibiting NMDA receptors, leading to a decrease in central nervous system activity. The depth of anesthesia can be rapidly adjusted by changing the concentration of the inhaled gas. Some common examples of inhalational anesthetics include volatile liquids like isoflurane, desflurane, sevoflurane and gases like xenon and nitrous oxide. Isoflurane, a...
Mechanical Ventilation I: Indication and Settings01:29

Mechanical Ventilation I: Indication and Settings

Mechanical ventilation is a life-saving technique for managing acute respiratory failure and other respiratory complications. The process involves using a machine known as a ventilator to supply oxygen to the lungs and assist in removing carbon dioxide. It serves as a bridge to long-term mechanical ventilation or a temporary measure until ventilatory support is discontinued. The ventilator can maintain this function for a prolonged period, providing critical support for patients until they can...
Oxygen Delivering System II: Venturi Mask and Transtracheal Oxygen01:16

Oxygen Delivering System II: Venturi Mask and Transtracheal Oxygen

Oxygen therapy is a pivotal aspect of medical care, particularly for patients with respiratory ailments. Two prominent oxygen-delivering systems include the Venturi mask and the transtracheal oxygen catheter.
Venturi Mask
The Venturi mask, named after the Venturi effect, is designed to deliver precise oxygen concentrations. It consists of a large tube with an oxygen inlet that narrows down, causing a pressure drop that pulls air in through adjustable side ports. The mask is a lightweight,...
Mechanical Ventilation III: Noninvasive Ventilation01:23

Mechanical Ventilation III: Noninvasive Ventilation

Noninvasive positive-pressure ventilation (NIPPV), continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP), and bilevel positive airway pressure (BiPAP) are essential methods in respiratory care. These ventilation techniques offer unique benefits for patients with various respiratory conditions, providing adequate support without requiring intubation. Let's explore how each method is crucial in improving patient outcomes and enhancing respiratory therapy.
Noninvasive Positive-Pressure Ventilation (NIPPV)
Acute Respiratory Failure-IV01:23

Acute Respiratory Failure-IV

Respiratory failure can manifest suddenly or gradually, characterized by a rapid decline in PaO2 and a rapid rise in PaCO2. This situation indicates a severe respiratory problem that may quickly become a life-threatening emergency. One of the early signs of hypoxemic Acute Respiratory Failure (ARF) is a change in mental status due to the brain's sensitivity to oxygen levels and changes in acid-base balance. Symptoms such as restlessness, confusion, and agitation suggest inadequate oxygen...