Conscious sedation in a specialty hospital

1. The patient under i.v. conscious sedation retains the ability to independently maintain a patent airway and respond appropriately to verbal commands and physical stimulation. He or she also has a depressed level of consciousness, and decreased pain and anxiety. 2. For a nurse to administer conscious sedation, conscious sedation policies, procedures and protocols must be in place within the institution. 3. Patients receiving conscious sedation must be monitored for physical changes in blood pressure, cardiac rate and rhythm, oxygen saturation, skin condition, pain, emotional status, and cognitive ability.