Implementation of a nurse-driven sedation protocol in the ICU

Area of Science:

• Critical care medicine
• Nursing practice
• Patient safety

Background:

• Managing anxiety, pain, and delirium in critically ill patients presents challenges.
• Variations in practice and medication administration increase the risk of errors.
• Subjectivity and nurse expertise influence titration of infusions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the perceived benefits of a standardized nurse-driven sedation protocol in the ICU.
• To assess the protocol's impact on medication error rates.
• To understand staff perceptions of the implemented protocol.

Main Methods:

• A descriptive study design was employed.
• Data were collected using a survey.
• A convenience sample of 75 ICU nurses participated.

Main Results:

• No statistical significance was found in sub-scale scores, but they did not decrease over time.
• No medication errors or near misses were reported during protocol implementation.
• Qualitative staff comments provided valuable feedback on protocol issues.

Conclusions:

• The sedation protocol implementation was beneficial in the adult ICU.
• Nurses gained confidence in managing patient anxiety, pain, and delirium with the protocol.
• Empowered nurses with tools, education, and support can improve patient outcomes.