Non-anesthesiologist-provided pediatric procedural sedation: an update

This review evaluates the past year's literature on the provision of pediatric procedural sedation outside of the operating room, especially as performed by non-anesthesiologist healthcare providers.

Research on pediatric procedural sedation practice continues to be limited by small case series and single institution study design. However, some exciting developments have occurred. Recent guideline revisions and safety initiatives are reported that impact positively on practice. Efforts to analyze the elements of sedation systems that result in greater safety, efficiency, and patient satisfaction are increasing, including evaluations of tiered systems utilizing the skills of various healthcare providers. Dexmedetomidine and etomidate are the subjects of investigation on their utility for procedural sedation. A multicentered study, adequately powered to provide meaningful evaluation of adverse events, has been completed and provides valuable insight on pediatric procedural sedation as practiced by a variety of healthcare providers.

Pediatric procedural sedation practice as performed by non-anesthesiologists continues to grow. Ongoing efforts to understand the elements of sedation systems that lead to best practice, with the subsequent development of uniform practice approaches, are essential. A collaborative relationship between anesthesiologists and non-anesthesiologist providers of procedural sedation is essential for meeting common goals.