Development of a pediatric minimal sedation resource for emergency registered nurses

Abstract

Background: Minimal sedation is commonly implemented during the care of pediatric patients in the emergency department (ED). However, Newfoundland and Labrador Health Services lacks resources for emergency registered nurses regarding best practices with pediatric minimal sedation. Purpose: To develop a policy outlining proper procedures for administering minimal sedation in the pediatric emergency department setting. An additional aim was to develop a learning resource on the policy and fundamental topics of pediatric pain and anxiety management. Methods: Three main methods were utilized in the development of this pediatric minimal sedation resource: 1) a thorough literature review, 2) an environmental scan of existing available resources, 3) consultations with key stakeholders, such as pediatric emergency registered nurses and physicians. Results: The literature concluded that pediatric pain and anxiety associated with medical procedures is high, with many misconceptions existing among registered nurses regarding pediatric pain and anxiety. Researchers emphasized the importance of education for healthcare workers. The environmental scan supported these findings, with many resources existing which outline best practices for minimal sedation in the pediatric population. The consultations showed that81% of RNs and physicians preferred lecture/workshops for resource delivery, and 100% agreed that a pediatric minimal sedation policy and educational resources are essential. Conclusion: A pediatric minimal sedation policy and half-day educational resource were both developed to emphasize the importance of providing safe and effective minimal sedation to pediatric patients in the ED.