Continuous Infusion of Midazolam for Short-term Sedation in Critically III Patients

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: The mechanically ventilated patient's stay in the emergency department (ED) is brief but ventilatory management and intervention must be optimal. Agitation, anxiety, distress, and discomfort are common complications far the ventilated patient. So, sedation is necessary to reduce these complications. METHODS: Patients were monitored and mechanically ventilated. Midazolam was intravenously administered as loading dose(3-5mg), followed by continuous infusion at a rate of 0.06mg/kg/hr, titrated to achieve a predetermined sedation level (Ramsay's sedation score 2-5 points, Glasgow coma score scathe 8-11 points). RESULTS: After onset of predetermined sedation, systolic and diastolic blood pressure and heart rate remained stable during continuous infusion when compared with those of the initial state. Arterial blood gas and peak inspiratory pressure remained unchanged but respiratory rate was decreased to allowable ranges. CONCLUSION: A short-term continuous infusion of midazolam was a safe and erective method for sedation of ventilated patients in ED.