Heavy sedation or sleep is a common problem within the intensive care unit (ICU) using our
standard intravenous medications. This commonly leads to confusion, low blood pressure, slow
wake up and removal of the artificial breathing tube (extubation), which prolongs ICU stay.
Using inhaled volatile anesthetic agents are likely to improve these patient outcomes. This
unique project is the first North American study looking at using volatiles for patients who
need longer-term ICU sedation. This project has excellent potential at lowering these
complications and improving quality of care, which will lower patient ICU stay and healthcare
costs.