Predictors of Adverse Events in Children Undergoing Propofol Sedation

In a retrospective study of propofol sedations by sedation-trained pediatric hospitalists for patients undergoing radiologic studies at St. Louis Children's Hospital, investigators identified frequency and predictors of adverse events. Standard protocols included continuous end-tidal CO₂ monitoring and delivery of supplemental oxygen by nasal cannula at 2 L/min. Oral midazolam and intravenous glycopyrrolate were given at the discretion of the sedating physician. The mean initial propofol bolus dose was 2.1 mg/kg, followed by a maintenance infusion at 200 µg/kg/minute.

Of 1649 patients (mean age, 5.2 years) sedated between 2005 and 2009, 7% experienced respiratory events and 10% received airway interventions. Three patients (0.18%) required a…