Procedural sedation is an advanced behavior guidance technique. This survey course features recognized leaders in both pediatric dentistry and dental anesthesia. Material will be taught through the use of didactic lectures, case studies, film clip sessions, panel discussions and hands-on opportunity with personalized attention. There will be dedicated forums to ask questions and discuss specific issues with course faculty, discuss techniques for effective communication with the patient and parent to address unusually challenging and complex situations. There is no magic bullet or perfect regimen for procedural sedation. This course will focus on the processes of patient assessment, treatment planning, risks/benefits/alternatives and patient rescue. This course is intended for pediatric dentists who have had training in sedation techniques in their graduate/residency programs. This course is consistent with the American Dental Association’s Guidelines on Teaching Pain Control and Sedation to Dentists and Dental Students in a Continuing Education Program. The level of this course, according to the ADA’s Guidelines, Part II, Definitions, Education Courses, is a survey course and does not offer direct, clinical patient management.
Course Objectives Upon completion of this course, the participant should have a better understanding of the:
Assessment of the Pediatric well-child, as well as the ill child Pediatric anatomy and physiology of the respiratory, cardiovascular and central nervous system related to sedation Commonly observed pharmacological effects of sedative agents used in pediatric sedations The appropriate physical assessment of the pediatric patient including risk assessment How to choose appropriate sedative(s) for the individual pediatric patient based on behavior, temperament and dental needs The appropriate monitoring equipment its indications based on depth of sedation and troubleshooting Guidelines and best practice literature associated with the sedation of pediatric patients Safe and judicious use of local anesthetics in combination with procedural sedation in the pediatric patient The principles of protocol in enhancing patient safety during oral sedation Intra-operative room and restorative preparation associated with sedation visits Principles associated with patient and family management and effective communication during sedation visits The use of nitrous oxide when used in combination with other sedative agents for use in pediatric patients Advantages and disadvantages of sedation and consider alternatives Identification and management of complications associated with sedation of the pediatric patient Discuss the pharmacological effects of combined drug therapy, their implications and management.