Nurse led sedation for paediatric MRI: progress and issues

This article describes the current magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) sedation service, the role of the nurse sedationist, results of clinical audits, and future issues within MRI.

Data from 2004 until 2006 were analysed to describe the percentage of children who were successfully sedated, and any complications. The recovery profile was investigated by a questionnaire of 100 consecutive cases.

Sedation was attempted in 455 cases with chloral hydrate, and 325 with temazepam and droperidol. The success rate was 97.4 and 92.6 per cent respectively. Top-up sedation was used in 10 and 29 per cent respectively. There were seven minor incidents but none required admission. Approximately 20 per cent of children were drowsy the following day.

We believe that the success of the service depends upon three main factors: the deselection of children in whom sedation is unsafe or likely to be unsuccessful, the use of appropriate drugs in limited doses, and the training of experienced nurses.