Sedation and Delirium in the Intensive Care Unit

Atients in intensive care units (ICUs) are treated with many interventions (most notably endotracheal intubation and invasive mechanical ventilation) that are observed or perceived to be distressing. Pain is the most common memory patients have of their ICU stay. 1 Agitation can precipitate accidental removal of endotracheal tubes or of intravascular catheters used for monitoring or administration of life-sustaining medications. Consequently, sedatives and analgesics are among the most commonly administered drugs in ICUs.