Introduction for Nursing Diagnosis
Deterioration of sedation is a NANDA nursing diagnosis determined by the nursing assessment of a patient with difficulty staying still or awake. It is associated with underlying issues such as illness, fatigue, anxiety, or pain. Nurses must assess the level of activity and determine if the patient is able to maintain an appropriate level of consciousness and alertness, and if not, begin treatments or other interventions to address the issue.
NANDA Nursing Diagnosis Definition
The NANDA-International nursing diagnosis of Deterioration of Sedation is defined as “inadequate level of conscious awareness, resulting in decreased attention and vigilance.”
Defining Characteristics
Subjective Data
- Complains of fatigue or exhaustion
- Difficulty maintaining focus
- Must use effort to remain awake
- Restless movements
- Sleep disturbances
Objective Data
- Appears disengaged and disinterested
- Easily distracted
- Slow response time
- Unable to complete activities due to lack of alertness/attentiveness
- Drowsiness or nodding off
Related Factors
Deterioration of Sedation may be related to any of the following:
- Age related changes in physiological state
- Changes in environmental lighting
- Drug interactions
- Fatigue/exhaustion
- Interrupted sleep patterns
- Lack of stimulation/sensory deprivation
- Pain
- Psychological stress
Risk Population
Patients at risk for experiencing Deterioration of Sedation include those who are elderly, very young, or have chronic illnesses or psychological conditions. In addition, individuals receiving medications or undergoing certain procedures that impair alertness or concentration are vulnerable.
Associated Problems
Inability to remain alert or attentive can lead to complications such as:
- Delirium/confusion
- Depression
- Falls
- Injuries
- Medication errors
- Missing appointments
- Poor decision-making
Suggestions For Use
Nurses can use a variety of techniques to assist a patient in remaining alert and attentive, such as:
- Providing stimulation (e.g., conversation or activities)
- Implementing measures to promote comfort and reduce pain
- Assessing and addressing nutritional needs
- Providing psychological support
- Medication review and adjustment
- Encouraging adequate sleep habits
Suggested Alternative NANDA Diagnoses
Other potential NANDA diagnoses related to Deterioration of Sedation include:
- Agitation
- Imbalanced Nutrition: Less than Body Requirements
- Disturbed Sleep Pattern
- Ineffective Health Maintenance
- Acute/Chronic Pain
- Risk for Injury
- Impaired Verbal Communication
Usage Tips
When diagnosing Deterioration of Sedation, it is important to consider the environment, activity levels, and possible underlying causes so all relevant factors can be addressed. Additionally, nurses should assess the patient’s response to interventions to ensure the best outcome.
NOC Results
Nursing Outcomes Classification results related to Deterioration of Sedation include:
- Orientation
- Attention Span
- Sleep/Rest
- Tissue Integrity: Skin and Mucous Membranes
- Safety/Protection
- Coping
NIC Interventions
Nurses should focus on the following interventions when managing Deterioration of Sedation:
- Environmental Management
- Reorientation Procedures
- Nutritional Monitoring
- Pain Management
- Sleep/Rest Promotion
- Stimulation Therapy
- Fall Prevention Strategies
Conclusion
The NANDA nursing diagnosis of Deterioration of Sedation is defined as inadequate level of conscious awareness, resulting in decreased attention and vigilance. This diagnosis is related to a variety of factors including fatigue, pain, medication, age-related changes, and more. Nurses must assess the patient and implement appropriate interventions to manage this condition and reduce its associated risks and complications.
FAQ
- What is NANDA nursing diagnosis? NANDA Nursing Diagnosis is a recognised terminology used by nurses to identify health issues and form a plan of care for patients. The NANDA nursing diagnoses include over 200 diagnoses, from Impaired Gas Exchange to Risk for Infection.
- What is Deterioration of Sedation? Deterioration of Sedation is a NANDA nursing diagnosis determined by the nursing assessment of a patient with difficulty staying still or awake. It is associated with underlying issues such as illness, fatigue, anxiety, or pain.
- What are the treatments for Deterioration of Sedation? Treatments for Deterioration of Sedation may include providing stimulation (e.g., conversation or activities), implementing measures to promote comfort and reduce pain, assessing and addressing nutritional needs, providing psychological support, medication review and adjustment, or encouraging adequate sleep habits.