How safe is IV sedation in the dentist office? It is an issue that has come into question. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) and American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) adopted important guidelines, some of which were published in Dentistry Today:

The use of moderate sedation should include a person in addition to the practitioner who is responsible for monitoring appropriate physiologic parameters and assisting in any supportive resuscitation measures if required. This individual also:

    • May be responsible for assisting with interruptible patient-related tasks of short duration (though other medical community guidelines forbid interruptible tasks)
    • Must be trained in and capable of providing basic pediatric life support
    • Have specific assignments in the event of an emergency and current knowledge of the emergency cart inventory

It’s important for dentist to follow these guidelines to ensure the highest level of safety. 

“There must be one person available whose only responsibility is to constantly observe the patient’s vital signs, airway patency, and adequacy of ventilation and to either administer drugs or direct their administration.”

“At least one individual must be present who is trained in, and capable of, providing advanced pediatric life support, and who is skilled in airway management and cardiopulmonary resuscitation; training in pediatric advanced life support is required.” 

A Certified Registered Nurse Anesthesiologist (CRNA), is trained to go to dental offices to provide safe and effective anesthesia. They act as an additional practitioner in the room who is responsible for monitoring the patient’s vitals signs.

“It should be understood that the availability of EMS services does not replace the practitioner’s responsibility to provide initial rescue in managing life-threatening complications,” the guidelines conclude.

At Blue Sky Anesthesia Associates, we have partnered with some of the top rated dentists in the New Hampshire area. We offer a solution to manage your fear and anxiety, and provide you with the best dental and sedation care available.