Patients in intensive care units (ICUs) are treated with many interventions
(most notably endotracheal intubation and invasive mechanical
ventilation) that are observed or perceived to be distressing. Pain is the most
common memory patients have of their ICU stay.1 Agitation can precipitate accidental
removal of endotracheal tubes or of intravascular catheters used for monitoring
or administration of life-sustaining medications. Consequently, sedatives and analgesics
are among the most commonly administered drugs in ICUs.