SEDATION OF THE AGITATED, CRITICALLY ILL PATIENT WITHOUT AN ARTIFICIAL AIRWAY

Sedation of the critically ill patient without an artificial airway is a difficult and challenging clinical problem. Careful attention to pr eparations, selection of appropriate techniques, and monitoring of pat ient responses during sedation will reduce problems in this patient po pulation. Preparation to provide airway support is essential in the se dation of these patients, and the appropriate training of the clinicia n is important.