A tool for objective assessment of sedation in the ICU
Until now, sedation assessment has been primarily guided by vital signs or subjective sedation assessment scales. These approaches may not be sufficient to achieve optimal patient assessment.
Complications of undersedation: (2)
- Fear, anxiety, and agitation
- Unpleasant recall
- Medical device removal
- Additional cost
- Increased nursing time
Complications of oversedation: (3)
- Increased time on mechanical ventilation
- Increased length of stay in ICU and/or hospital
- Additional cost of care
- Increased risk of complications
- Need for additional diagnostic testing
Now, with an objective way to assess sedation, the BIS monitor can help you determine your patient's level of sedation and make informed decisions about titration of sedative drugs.
Especially useful for sedation assessment during:
- Mechanical ventilation
- Neuromuscular blockade
- Barbiturate coma
- Bedside procedures
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References:
- Kaplan L, Bailey H. Bispectral Index (BIS) monitoring of ICU patients on continuous infusions of sedatives and paralytics reduces sedative drug utilization and cost. Crit Care. 2000;4(suppl 1):S110.
- Fraser G, Riker R, Wilkins M, et al. What is the incidence and cost of patient-initiated device removal in the ICU? International Pharmaceutical Abstracts. 1999;36(6).
- Brook A, Ahrens T, Schaiff R, et al. Effect of a nursing-implemented sedation protocol on the duration of mechanical ventilation. Crit Care Med. 1999;27 (12):2609-2615.
