Sedation and Analgesia: Depth of Sedation

What is the primary difference between minimal sedation and moderate sedation?

Which sedation level is characterized by a patient who is not easily roused but responds purposefully following repeated or painful stimulation?

What is the primary concern in general anesthesia regarding patient ventilation?

What distinguishes minimal sedation from moderate sedation in terms of patient response?

What is the primary difference between deep sedation and general anesthesia?

Sedation Depths

Minimal sedation (anxiolysis): patient responds normally to verbal stimulation
- Airway reflexes, cognitive function, and coordination may be impaired
- Ventilatory and cardiovascular functions are unaffected

Moderate Sedation / Analgesia

Depression of consciousness is medication-induced
Patient responds purposefully to verbal commands (alone or accompanied by light tactile stimulation)
Airway is patent, and spontaneous ventilation is adequate
Cardiovascular function is usually unaffected

Deep Sedation / Analgesia

Depression of consciousness is medication-induced
Patient is not easily roused but responds purposefully following repeated or painful stimulation
Patient may require assistance in maintaining a patent airway
Independent maintenance of ventilatory function may be impaired
Spontaneous ventilation may be inadequate
Cardiovascular function is usually maintained

General Anesthesia

Loss of consciousness is medication-induced
Patient is not rousable, even by painful stimulation
Patient often requires assistance in maintaining a patent airway
Positive-pressure ventilation may be required due to:
- Depression of spontaneous ventilation
- Drug-induced depression of neuromuscular function
Cardiovascular function may be impaired

This quiz covers the different depths of sedation, including minimal and moderate sedation, and their effects on patients undergoing procedural sedation and analgesia. Understand the American Society of Anesthesiologists' definitions and guidelines for safe and effective sedation practices.