SGNA Sedation and Analgesia 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Which medication is a commonly used opioid analgesic for GI endoscopy procedural sedation?
- Fentanyl (Correct answer)
- Morphine
- Hydromorphone
- Methadone
Correct answer: Fentanyl
Fentanyl is preferred for endoscopy sedation due to its rapid onset (1–2 minutes), short duration (30–60 minutes), and favorable cardiovascular profile.
Question 2: What does capnography measure during procedural sedation?
- End-tidal CO2 (ETCO2) (Correct answer)
- Peripheral oxygen saturation
- Arterial blood pressure
- Heart rate
Correct answer: End-tidal CO2 (ETCO2)
Capnography continuously monitors end-tidal CO2, providing early detection of respiratory compromise, apnea, or hypoventilation before SpO2 drops.
Question 3: Which sedation agent is classified as an anesthetic and requires administration only by qualified anesthesia providers per many state regulations?
- Propofol (Correct answer)
- Midazolam
- Fentanyl
- Diphenhydramine
Correct answer: Propofol
Propofol (Diprivan) has a narrow therapeutic window and can rapidly cause deep sedation or general anesthesia, restricting its administration to anesthesia-trained providers in many states.
Question 4: The Ramsay Sedation Scale is used to assess what during procedural sedation?
- Level of consciousness and sedation depth (Correct answer)
- Respiratory rate only
- Pain intensity
- Patient cooperation
Correct answer: Level of consciousness and sedation depth
The Ramsay Sedation Scale (levels 1–6) assesses depth of sedation from anxious/agitated to unresponsive, guiding medication titration.
Question 5: What is the primary concern when administering midazolam to elderly patients for endoscopy sedation?
- Prolonged sedation and increased fall risk (Correct answer)
- Allergic reaction
- Hypertension
- Tachycardia
Correct answer: Prolonged sedation and increased fall risk
Elderly patients have reduced hepatic metabolism and increased sensitivity to benzodiazepines, leading to prolonged sedation, confusion, and increased fall risk post-procedure.
Question 6: Before administering moderate sedation, the GI nurse should verify which critical prerequisite?
- Informed consent has been obtained and signed (Correct answer)
- Patient has eaten a full meal
- IV access is unnecessary
- Emergency equipment is in a different room
Correct answer: Informed consent has been obtained and signed
Signed informed consent must be verified before sedation administration, confirming the patient understands risks, benefits, and alternatives.
SGNA Sedation and Analgesia 2
Which medication is a commonly used opioid analgesic for GI endoscopy procedural sedation?