The effect of a daily sedation interruption on the intensive care unit

Abstract: Background: Daily sedation interruptions (DSI) are performed within intensive care units worldwide and are thought to reduce delirium and shorten the duration of mechanical ventilation. However, there is conflicting evidence to suggest otherwise. Aim: The aim of this study is to examine the effect of a daily sedation interruption on patients in the ICU. Method: An integrative literature review, of which seven articles are included extracted from two databases- PubMed and CINAHL.Results: There was no significant effect of DSI found on the patient regarding delirium, ICU length of stay, mechanical ventilation, and mortality. Conclusion: An essential part of an ICU nurse’s role is preventative treatment. Being able to adapt a guideline regarding sedation through a patient-centred approach to prevent delirium, stress and impaired physical function would have a great impact on patient care.