Sedation and monitoring practice during colonoscopy varies between centers and over time. Knowledge of current practice is needed to ensure quality of care and help focus future research.
The objective of this study was to examine sedation and monitoring practice in endoscopy centers internationally. This observational study included consecutive patients referred for colonoscopy at 21 centers in 11 countries.
Endoscopists reported sedation and monitoring practice, using a standard questionnaire for each patient. Conclusions: Internationally, sedation and monitoring practice during colonoscopy varied widely.
Moderate sedation was the most common sedation method used and electronic monitoring was used in three-quarters of patients. Deep sedation tended to be more resource-intensive, implying a greater use of staff and monitoring.