Use of sedatives in the critically ill

Sedation is necessary for the care of most critically ill patients and yet it is not without risk. No agent is ideal and each has potentially deleterious sequelae, particularly in the context of organ dysfunction. Tailoring the regimen to each individual patient is essential but certain strategies such as the protocolized use of sedation scoring systems and daily interruptions have been shown to enhance patient outcome. Here, we review these subjects and the evidence that underscores current clinical practice.