Ask the expert: conscious sedation

The case study illustrates safe use of conscious sedation and careful attention to prevention of complications as outlined in the AAP and ASA practice guidelines. Before implementation of a conscious sedation program, care providers need to have a clear idea of the goals of conscious sedation. These goals, as described by the American Academy of Pediatrics (1992) are: "1) to guard the patient's safety and welfare; 2) to minimize physical discomfort or pain; 3) to minimize negative psychologic responses to treatment by providing analgesia and to maximize the potential for amnesia; 4) to control behavior; and 5) to return the patient to a state in which safe discharge, as determined by recognized criteria, is possible" (p. 1,110). With careful attention to these goals, conscious sedation can be a valuable adjunct to pediatric care.