Whitehead NJ, et al. - In this review, researchers studied the role of sedation for cardiac catheterisation, including current practices. They also focused on the available proof related to diagnostic and interventional coronary procedures in the cardiac catheterisation laboratory. High variability was observed in the use of sedation and the medication regimens used. The studies that are relevant, as well as available, are limited in number and most of these are small. Findings revealed that a modest decline in pain, improvement in patient tolerability and attenuation in the risk of radial artery spasm was achieved with benzodiazepines and opioids. With regard to sedation use, agent(s) and dose, individualized decision making based on patient factors, including the requirement for oral antiplatelet therapy administration, was recommended. Appropriate staffing and monitoring were suggested as essential.