On-Target Patient Sedation: Ways to Improve Out Aim

With the concept of patient-centered sedation, critical care nursing has entered into a new era. Looking beyond the vital but short-term goals of stabilizing patients and supporting organ systems, the broader implications of sedative selection are coming into clearer focus. Emphasis is shifting toward maximizing the comfort of sedated patients while improving hemodynamic stability, increasing patient cooperation with neurological assessment and therapeutic measures, and reducing time to wean from ventilation. This publication will explore the purpose and goals of sedation, as well as rational selection of pharmacologic agents and achievement of their desired effects.