Optimizing Sedation Strategies in the Cardiac ICU: Induction, Maintenance and Weaning

Purpose of Review: We aim to summarize the available literature guiding tailored sedation practices for specific conditions encountered in the Cardiovascular Intensive Care Unit (CICU). Recent Findings: Data specific for the CICU population is lacking. Preclinical data and observational studies guide sedation approaches for specific pathologies that we have used to generate a guideline for sedative choice for various scenarios. We discuss the challenges associated with extubation and highlight the importance of spontaneous breathing trials and role of non invasive ventilation. Summary: Understanding the underlying pathology and the effects of sedation and positive pressure ventilation is the base to guide induction and sedation management for patients in the CICU. There is a pressing need for further research to generate high quality clinical data to improve sedation techniques in the CICU.