How are qualified individuals defined? What are the characteristics of conscious sedation and how does it differ from other types of anesthesia?
Conscious sedation is a form of anesthesia that induces a minimally depressed level of consciousness. It allows the patient to maintain a patent airway independently and continuously and respond appropriately to physical stimulation and verbal commands. It differs from deep sedation and general anesthesia only in the level of consciousness maintained. All anesthesia requires close monitoring of vital signs, physiologic functioning, and the appropriate level of consciousness. Qualified personnel are those licensed practitioners who by education, training, and experience are privileged to deliver and monitor conscious sedation in the practice setting. In addition, it is important that each individual also have training to rescue the patient from deep sedation and that the practice confirm that ability through ACLS certification, written examination scores or process review proctored by an anesthesiologist.