Before a procedure, a target level of sedation will be nominated based on discussion with the patient, and the complexity and likely discomfort of the procedure.
Clinicians with the appropriate skills and training to manage patient risk will then be allocated to perform the procedure and provide sedation.
Identifying the target level of sedation
Sedation providers target a level of sedation along a continuum based on the patient and the procedure.
Pharmacology knowledge
Understanding the actions, interactions and adverse effects of commonly used medications is essential to patient safety.
Airway skills and training
Sedation providers should have an advanced level of airway management skills.
Monitoring requirements
Patients under sedation require a range of monitoring.
Equipment
There are minimum equipment requirements to ensure safe sedation practices.
Recognising and managing a deteriorating patient
Clinicians should be able to recognise and adequately respond when complications arise.