Pediatric flexible bronchoscopy under conscious sedation: nursing considerations for preparation and monitoring.

Flexible bronchoscopy provides a powerful tool to evaluate pulmonary abnormalities in the pediatric population. Nursing involvement may range from age-appropriate preparation of the patient and family to administration of conscious sedation agents. Meticulous nursing assessment of the child, family, and environment facilitates identifying and meeting client needs related to flexible bronchoscopy. Preparation of the physical environment as well as physiological and psychological preparation of the child increase the likelihood of a positive experience. By increasing their familiarity with the procedure, sedation strategies, and monitoring standards, nurses increase the probability of safe and successful flexible bronchoscopic evaluations.