Praxis Medical Insights

Est. 2024 • Clinical Guidelines Distilled

Made possible by volunteer editors from the University of Calgary & University of Alberta

Last Updated: 8/24/2025

Sedation for Shoulder Reduction in Obese Patients

Pharmacological Considerations

  • Etomidate has a favorable hemodynamic profile compared to other sedatives, which is particularly important in patients with cardiovascular concerns 1
  • For procedural analgesia when combined with etomidate, fentanyl should be administered at 1-2 mcg/kg, as recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics 2

Monitoring and Safety

  • Monitor oxygen saturation, blood pressure, and heart rate throughout the procedure, as recommended by the American College of Emergency Physicians 3
  • Fentanyl's effects may persist longer than etomidate, so continue monitoring respiratory status during recovery, according to guidelines from the American Academy of Pediatrics 2