What is the main purpose of procedural sedation?

The main purpose of procedural sedation is to keep patients in a state of comfort while allowing them to retain their protective reflexes, such as the ability to breathe on their own. This level of sedation enables patients to be relaxed and less aware of their surroundings during a procedure that may be uncomfortable or invasive, while still being able to respond to verbal commands or physical stimulation. This is particularly important in outpatient settings or minor procedures, where full general anesthesia is unnecessary and could pose additional risks.

In contrast, inducing full general anesthesia, which is often complete loss of consciousness and sensation, is not the aim of procedural sedation, as it can also involve more complex monitoring and risks. Providing comfort without sedation does not align with the goal of procedural sedation, which specifically involves some level of sedation to ease anxiety and discomfort. While monitoring vital signs is an important aspect of patient care during any procedure, the primary focus of procedural sedation is on achieving a comfortable state for the patient while preserving vital reflexes.