Avoiding Sedatives' Dangerous Side Effects

Sedation is commonly used in the intensive care unit (ICU) to make patients who require mechanical ventilation more comfortable, and less anxious. But sedation can have serious side effects, including delirium, that can endanger a patient’s life. Dr. Richard Barton, Director of Surgical Critical Care at University of Utah Health, and Nick Lonardo, Pharmacy Clinical Coordinator, describe the hazards and how to avoid them. The research behind their recommendations was published in the American Journal of Respiratory Critical Care Medicine.