Sub-anesthesia ketamine infusions

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Does anyone know what the nursing standards are re: Sub-anesthesia Ketamine infusions? Does a physician need to be present? :argue:

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Specializes in ED, ICU, Heme/Onc.
Does anyone know what the nursing standards are re: Sub-anesthesia Ketamine infusions? Does a physician need to be present? :argue:

Are you talking about ketamine treatments for RSD? My only experience has been through a family member receiving one, but she was on bedside tele with hourly BP and constant SPO2 monitoring. I'd imagine that it would be like any other conscious sedation protocol which would vary from facility to facility. I see your speciality is home infusion. I'd be really uncomfortable giving someone ketamine in that setting without monitors in place and a team ready to intubate if necessary.

Blee

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I haven't seen the orders as yet, but I understand the infusion is used once a week for a month in order to break the pain cycle in chronic pain patients. This is the third request we have had for this type of infusion. It is coming from a pain clinic. Previously the insurance co. would not cover it, but it seems this pt. will be covered. Thanks for your reply. Any input will be helpful.

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Specializes in Burn, CCU, CTICU, Trauma, SICU, MICU.

i've done it for pediatrics in burn units. the doc SHOULD be present, yes.

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