Conscious sedation v. monitored anaesthersia care - 20years in the South African context

Stefanutto, Tish; Ruttmann, Tom

Conscious sedation v. monitored anaesthersia care - 20years in the South African context

Journal Article

2006

Journal Title

South African Medical Journal

Link to Journal

http://www.samj.org.za/index.php/samj

Publisher

University of Cape Town

Department

Department of Anaesthesia

Faculty

Faculty of Health Sciences

Abstract

Sedation of patients for minor procedures is here to stay. However, it is the responsibility of every physician to be aware of the potential complications associated with the combination of drugs administered and to practise in an environment where no risks are taken and no procedures performed outside the circle of safety. Furthermore, as an anaesthetic service, monitored anaesthesia care (MAC) is clearly distinct from moderate sedation and it is important for patient safety that these differences are recognised and adhered to. In essence, all practitioners must observe the strict distinctions between sedation and MAC to prevent the drift into deeper sedation under inappropriate circumstances.