Risk for Agitation in Sedated Intensive Care Unit Patients Increases with Prolonged Psychoactive Drug Use Prior to Admission
Academic Level at Time of Presentation
Senior
Major
Biology
Minor
Chemistry
List all Project Mentors & Advisor(s)
Dr. Weinberger
Presentation Format
Oral Presentation
Abstract/Description
Routine standard of care of critically ill patients in the intensive care unit involves sedation. Sedation allows the patients to tolerate procedures and artificial ventilation support as well as reduces anxiety and stress. This allows the necessary care to proceed in order for healing to occur. Agitation in the ICU can lead to negative outcomes, prolong time spent hospitalized and in recovery, and alter diagnoses and further medical treatment. Chronic substance abuse may pose an increased risk for agitation during sedation in the ICU. Commonly abused substances will be examined to determine their effect on the individual and if misuse of the substance causes an increase of agitation during sedation. The results will allow alternatives to current, regular practices to be explored to improve patient care in these individuals.
Fall Scholars Week 2019 Event
Honors College Senior Theses
Risk for Agitation in Sedated Intensive Care Unit Patients Increases with Prolonged Psychoactive Drug Use Prior to Admission
Routine standard of care of critically ill patients in the intensive care unit involves sedation. Sedation allows the patients to tolerate procedures and artificial ventilation support as well as reduces anxiety and stress. This allows the necessary care to proceed in order for healing to occur. Agitation in the ICU can lead to negative outcomes, prolong time spent hospitalized and in recovery, and alter diagnoses and further medical treatment. Chronic substance abuse may pose an increased risk for agitation during sedation in the ICU. Commonly abused substances will be examined to determine their effect on the individual and if misuse of the substance causes an increase of agitation during sedation. The results will allow alternatives to current, regular practices to be explored to improve patient care in these individuals.