title: Optimizing sedation in critically ill, mechanically ventilated patients.
abstract: Patients on mechanical ventilators may experience discomfort, fear, anxiety, and pain. Sedative and adjunctive medications often are prescribed on an "as needed" basis. This article reviews current trends in sedation administration and suggests strategies for optimizing sedation management. Pharmacologic properties of commonly used medications are presented.
authors.forename: K S
authors.initials: KS
authors.lastname: Bizek
mesh_terms: D016292:Procedural Sedation / Q000379:methods / Q000451:nursing; D003422:Critical Care; D006801:Humans; D009737:Nursing Records; D010347:Patient Care Planning; D012121:Respiration, Artificial / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000451:nursing