# Evaluation of neurological outcomes after prolonged sedation among ICU patients: A prospective study in India

## TL;DR

This study in India found that most ICU patients recover fully after prolonged sedation, with only a few showing mild cognitive issues.

## Contribution

The study provides empirical evidence on neurological outcomes of prolonged sedation in Indian ICU patients.

## Key findings

- Most patients recovered completely to their pre-morbid baseline function.
- A small number of patients had mild persistent cognitive impairment.
- Prolonged sedation over 72 hours generally does not lead to significant long-term neurological issues.

## Abstract

Extended sedation in intensive care settings can produce neurological problems. Hence, this prospective study analyzed the neurological
recovery of patients receiving continuous sedation (> 72 hours). Neurological function was evaluated at the time of ICU discharge and at
three months to assess for any residual cognitive or functional impairment. Most patients appeared to recover completely and achieve their
baseline pre-morbid function although a small number had mild persistent cognitive impairment. The data suggest that with continued
vigilance after prolonged sedation greater than 72 hours there are generally no significant long-term neurological implications, which can
be useful to render safer sedation methods in critical care medicine.