Sedatives/Anesthetics

Question 1

what is the difference between a sedative and anesthetic?

Answer 1

A sedative is a medically induced temporary depression of consciousness prior to procedures that cause pain or discomfort to patients (pain meds usually also given in adjunct)
An anesthetic is a medation that reduces perception to stimuli by altering level of consciousness and induces sensitivity to pain

Question 2

what are the three main types of sedation?

Answer 2

Mild: pt is drowsy and relaxed, minimal effects on sensations
Moderate (conscious or procedural sensation): pt is semi-conscious, breathes on own & respond to stimulation
Deep: pt is nearly unconscious and only has purposeful response to repeated and painful stimulation