Adverse responses: sedation, analgesia and neuromuscular blocking agents in critically ill children

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Critical Care
• Pharmacology
• Nursing Practice

Background:

• Advanced practice nurses (APNs) play a crucial role in managing critically ill pediatric patients.
• Sedation, analgesia, and neuromuscular blocking agents are commonly prescribed by APNs for these patients.
• While generally safe, these medications can cause adverse events in children.

Purpose of the Study:

• To inform APNs about potential adverse responses to sedation, analgesia, and neuromuscular blocking agents in critically ill children.
• To highlight specific morbidities associated with these medications.
• To provide guidance for APN practice in managing these adverse events.

Main Methods:

• Literature review and synthesis of existing data on adverse drug reactions.
• Clinical case examples (implied).
• Analysis of associated morbidities and costs.

Main Results:

• Identified adverse responses include withdrawal syndrome, muscle weakness, decreased gastric motility, and corneal abrasions.
• These adverse events can lead to significant patient morbidity.
• Associated healthcare costs are an important consideration.

Conclusions:

• APNs must be aware of and vigilant for adverse responses to commonly prescribed medications in critically ill children.
• Early recognition and management of these adverse events are essential to minimize patient harm.
• Understanding the spectrum of adverse effects and their associated costs is vital for optimizing pediatric critical care.