The Evolution of Nurse-Monitored Sedation

The practice of nurse-administered sedation has evolved over the past decade. As the use of sedation increased and adverse events were reported, the need for guidelines to benefit patient safety became crucial. Guidelines have been issued from nursing organizations, medical organizations, and accrediting agencies that have the patient's safety as a priority. This article looks at the history of sedation and discusses how practice issues have evolved to the present day.