Using heavy sedation versus general anesthesia: This choice depends on the procedure, patient temperament, and the need for monitoring and support. In general, sedation may be appropriate for shorter (,30 min) and less-invasive procedures (e.g., diagnostic procedures, joint injections, suture removal,and wound management). Sedated patients, just as those undergeneral anesthesia, require appropriate monitoring and supportive care. They may require airway management and/or O2 supplementation. Be prepared to intubate if necessary.