A nursing perspective on sedation and nurse-administered propofol for endoscopy

Abstract

Although the role of nurses in endoscopic sedation and monitoring varies widely, our experience has been that an active role of nurses in the administration of sedation and in patient monitoring has been safe for patients, has allowed expansion of the use of propofol in GI endoscopy in a cost-effective fashion, and has been satisfying to patients and nurses. In addition, in some instances nurse administration of sedation has improved the efficiency of the endoscopy unit. The role of nurses in endoscopic sedation and monitoring continues to develop, and we are enthusiastic about an active role for nurses.