Sedation for invasive procedures in paediatrics

It is inappropriate to subject children to distressing procedures if this can be avoided. Moreover, many procedures may be diYcult or unsafe in the uncooperative child. The number of valuable but invasive techniques in use has increased steadily over the years, and to facilitate these, sedative agents are often given. Such use of sedation is generally supervised by non-anaesthetists. Despite the obvious benefits associated with this practice, there are unresolved concerns about its eYcacy and safety.