Comparison of recovery tests after intravenous sedation with diazepam-methohexital and diazepam-methohexital and fentanyl.

A model for the assessment of recovery to street fitness from two commonly used techniques for intravenous sedation is described. Well-known psychometric research methods and simple paper-and-pencil tests that could be given by interested clinicians were used. The speed of recovery from diazepam-methohexital, and diazepam-methohexital and fentanyl (with naloxine reversal), did not differ significantly. Psychomotor skills were recovered before both perceptual and cognitive functions. Two simple paper-and-pencil tests easily identified perceptual and cognitive deficits at least three hours postoperatively.