Definitions of Levels of Sedation/Analgesia by the American Society of Anesthesiologists*

• Minimal Sedation (Anxiolysis)
  • Drug-induced sedation
  • The patient responds normally to verbal commands.
  • Cognitive and motor function may be impaired.
  • Ventilatory and cardiovascular functions are maintained normally.
• Moderate Sedation/Analgesia (Conscious Sedation)
  • Drug-induced sedation
  • The patient responds purposefully to verbal commands either alone or with light tactile stimulation.
  • The patient maintains a patent airway and spontaneous ventilation.
  • Cardiovascular function is maintained.
• Deep Sedation/Analgesia
  • Drug-induced sedation
  • The patient cannot be easily aroused but can respond purposefully to repeated or painful stimulation.
  • Ventilatory function may be impaired, requiring assistance in maintaining a patent airway, and spontaneous ventilation may be inadequate.
  • Cardiovascular function is usually maintained.
• General Anesthesia
  • Drug-induced loss of consciousness
  • The patient is not arousable by painful stimulation.
  • Ventilatory function is often impaired; the patient may require assistance in maintaining a patent airway.
  • Spontaneous ventilation and neuromuscular functioning may be impaired.
  • Positive-pressure ventilation is often required.
  • Cardiovascular function may be impaired.

*October 13, 1999, by the House of Delegates.