Authors
- Helena Majstorović – University Hospital Centre Split, Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Internal Intensive Care Medicine, Split, Croatia
- Lena Marković – University Hospital Centre Split, Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Internal Intensive Care Medicine, Split, Croatia
- Leo Miolin – University Hospital Centre Split, Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Internal Intensive Care Medicine, Split, Croatia
DOI
https://doi.org/10.65241/wh.9.1.9
Article type:
Case report
Abstract:
Background: In contemporary critical care practice, sedation is predominantly maintained with intravenous agents, most notably propofol, benzodiazepines, and dexmedetomidine. More recently, inhalational sedation using volatile anesthetics such as sevoflurane and isoflurane has been increasingly utilized. The advantages of this approach include precise control of drug delivery and elimination, improved regulation of sedation depth, faster awakening, and a lower risk of drug accumulation.
Methods: Data were collected at the Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital Centre Split, from the hospital information system and through clinical patient monitoring, with informed consent and approval from the Ethics Committee. A case of a 65-year-old patient admitted due to theophylline intoxication, respiratory failure, and severe metabolic acidosis requiring intubation and mechanical ventilation is presented. During treatment, vital signs, laboratory parameters, and depth of sedation were continuously monitored.
Results: During treatment, stable hemodynamics, adequate sedation depth, and rapid recovery of consciousness following discontinuation of sedation were achieved. Early extubation was successfully performed, with no signs of neurological or renal complications. These findings are consistent with available literature confirming the safety and efficacy of short-term inhalational sedation.
Conclusions: Inhalational sedation with sevoflurane represents an effective and safe therapeutic option in intensive care units, particularly for patients with complex comorbidities, offering advantages such as rapid titration, minimal accumulation, and favorable clinical outcomes.
Keywords:
AnaConDa, inhalation sedation, nursing, nursing care, sevoflurane.