Objective: To discuss the approach to sedation of the mechanically ventilated patient.
Data synthesis: Mechanically ventilated patients in the intensive care unit frequently require sedation and analgesia for anxiety and pain experienced during the time they are intubated. Multiple drugs are available for this purpose. Strategies that optimize comfort while minimizing the predilection for sedative and analgesic drug accumulation with prolongation of effect have been shown to improve outcomes. In particular, such strategies may decrease mechanical ventilation duration, intensive care unit length of stay, and complications associated with critical illness.
Conclusions: Sedation and analgesia are important in the management of patients who require mechanical ventilation. An evidence-based approach to administering sedatives and analgesics is necessary to optimize short- and long-term outcomes in mechanically ventilated patients.