What levels of sedation are within the scope of procedural sedation?

• A. Minimal and Moderate
• B. Minimal and Deep
• C. Moderate and Anesthesia
• D. Moderate and Deep

Answer: (D)

Procedural sedation covers the levels at which a patient is sedated enough to facilitate a procedure while still being safely monitored, with the emphasis on moderate and deep levels. In moderate sedation, the patient responds purposefully to verbal or tactile stimulation, airway and spontaneous breathing are usually adequate, and cognitive function is reduced but preserved. In deep sedation, the patient is not easily aroused but can respond to repeated or painful stimuli; airway control and ventilation may require assistance, though it is not full general anesthesia. General anesthesia is outside the scope of procedural sedation because it requires more extensive airway management and monitoring by an anesthesia provider. Minimal sedation (anxiolysis) is lighter than procedural sedation and is not the focus here. So the levels within procedural sedation are moderate and deep.