ICU Sedation: Benzodiazepines (IV)

 

What are benzodiazepines?

 

Benzodiazepines act in the brain to cause sedation (sleepiness, drowsiness), decrease anxiety, and provide amnesia (help the patient to not remember much of their time in the intensive care unit).  Examples of benzodiazepines include lorazepam (Ativan®), midazolam (Versed®), and diazepam (Valium®).

 

Why are benzodiazepines important?

 

Many patients who are in the intensive care unit will be anxious and uncomfortable.  This is especially true if they require a breathing machine (mechanical ventilator) to help their breathing   Benzodiazepines will help keep patients comfortable and breathe more easily on the ventilator.  Sometimes these agents can also improve the quality of sleep for the patients while they are in the intensive care unit.

 

How will the patient look or feel on benzodiazepines?

 

Benzodiazepines cause sedation, so the patient will look relaxed and may look like they are sleeping.  Depending on the dose of benzodiazepine needed, the patient may not be able to open their eyes or answer questions.  Benzodiazepines also have an amnesia effect so the patient will not likely remember events that occur while they are receiving these medicines.

 

What are the side effects of benzodiazepines?

 

Benzodiazepines cause relatively few side effects.  They rarely cause nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.

 

How long will benzodiazepines be continued?

 

The length of time that a patient requires benzodiazepines depends on their medical condition.  The medical team will regularly evaluate whether the benzodiazepines are still necessary.  Depending on the amount of time the patient has received the benzodiazepines, it may be necessary to decrease the dose a little bit each day rather than stopping abruptly.

 

If you have any questions about benzodiazepines or other questions relating to the patient’s care, please ask the staff in the intensive care unit.

 

The information provided should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.

Last Updated: 04/28/2010

Copyright © 04/28/2010 University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics Authority. All rights reserved. Produced by the Department of Nursing. UWH #5197

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