Certainly you want to do everything in your power to ensure the safety of your child or loved one, when it comes to dental sedation. Many parents don’t realize or are unaware of the risks involved in when a ‘single model sedation’, such as, when a pediatric dentist, administers IV sedation while also performing the dental procedure.
Even though the parent may have signed a consent form explaining the dangers, the information isn’t always absorbed. It is important to have all the information before making any decisions about dental sedation.
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) warns of the lack of appropriate training and staffing during pediatric dental procedures when it comes to sedation.
One issue identified repeatedly as problematic is appropriate training and staffing during procedures where deep sedation and/or general anesthesia is the therapeutic goal.
The practice model endorsed by the Academy and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) for deeply sedated children (i.e., no purposeful interaction) is one in which a specific person has dedicated responsibility “to constantly observe the patient’s vital signs, airway patency, and adequacy of ventilation and to either administer drugs or direct their administration and at a minimum be trained in PALS (Pediatric Advanced Life Support) and capable of assisting with any emergency event”
The situation in some dental offices is worrisome given the considerable state-to-state variability in anesthesia requirements in the dental setting. Most states allow a “single-operator” model in which a dentist holding a state-issued anesthesia permit may administer sedatives/anesthetics and perform the dental procedure.
Often, the person monitoring the patient under sedation is a dental assistant whose training varies from state to state and who may have no more than a high school diploma and a certificate course.
This is why so many dental offices are partnering with Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNA). Someone who is qualified/certified to administer the sedation and monitor vital signs during the procedure, for the safest and most effective form of sedation.
Blue Sky Solutions Anesthesia Associates follows the strict American Dental Association guidelines and protocols throughout the procedure. Prior to your appointment, Certified, Registered and Licensed Nurse Anesthesiologist Dwayne Thibeault will work closely with you to determine the best course of treatment and answer any questions.
