Observation

Assessing a child’s level of sedation is critical to the safe provision of sedation for diagnostic and therapeutic procedures. Providers must recognize when patients enter deeper than intended levels of sedation where cardiorespiratory compromise can occur and promptly intervene to prevent clinical deterioration. Observational scales and processed EEG monitors have been used to assess levels of sedation. In circumstances where there is physical separation of provider and patient, increased vigilance and frequency of monitoring physiologic parameters is critical. The use of capnography to monitor respiratory function should be employed in these situations.