Bispectral Index monitoring in the neurointensive care unit.
Although the BIS monitor is relatively new to the intensive care setting, it can be a very beneficial tool in monitoring neurological patients. Having minute-to-minute indicators and reassurance of adequate sedation in the neuromuscular-blockaded patient enables neuroscience nurses to provide better care. More timely and current measurements of pentobarbital serum levels can help reduce and prevent life-threatening complications in this patient population. Much research has been done on its use, and further research is needed into the monitor's many uses.
Hilbish
Chris
C
Clarian Health Partners, Methodist Hospital, Indianapolis, IN, USA. chilbish@clarian.org
D004867:Equipment Design; D006801:Humans; D007362:Intensive Care Units; D009462:Neurology / Q000295:instrumentation*; D009732:Nursing Care / Q000458:organization & administration