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Propofol infusion for sedation in intensive care
L H Newman1, J C McDonald, P G Wallace
1Intensive Care Unit, Western Infirmary, Glasgow.
Anaesthesia
|September 1, 1987
Summary
Continuous propofol infusion provided effective sedation for mechanically ventilated patients in the ICU. However, critically ill patients may experience cardiovascular depression, necessitating careful monitoring during propofol sedation.
Area of Science:
- Anesthesiology
- Critical Care Medicine
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Mechanical ventilation requires adequate sedation for patient comfort and synchrony.
- Propofol is a commonly used intravenous anesthetic agent for sedation.
- Continuous infusions of propofol are utilized in intensive care units (ICUs).
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy and safety of continuous 8-hour propofol infusion for sedation in mechanically ventilated ICU patients.
- To assess hemodynamic, respiratory, hematological, and biochemical variables during propofol infusion.
- To determine the recovery profile after propofol discontinuation.
Main Methods:
- Ten critically ill patients received an 8-hour continuous infusion of undiluted propofol.
- Sedation levels were assessed hourly.
- Hemodynamic, respiratory, hematological, and biochemical parameters were monitored.
- Adrenal steroidogenesis was assessed.
Main Results:
- Satisfactory sedation was achieved in most patients.
- A significant decrease in mean and diastolic arterial pressures was observed.
- Eight patients required additional sedation post-infusion.
- Adrenal steroidogenesis was not significantly inhibited.
- Rapid recovery was noted upon discontinuation.
Conclusions:
- Continuous propofol infusion is a useful and controllable sedative for mechanically ventilated patients.
- Critically ill patients may be sensitive to propofol's cardiovascular depressant effects.
- Careful monitoring of hemodynamics is crucial during propofol administration in this population.