NATIONAL COURSE IN CONSCIOUS SEDATION FOR DENTISTRY

The SAAD National Course provides theoretical and practical instruction in all aspects relating to the current use of Conscious Sedation techniques.

The course is designed for practitioners who wish to commence the administration of sedation techniques and also as an update for those who wish to keep abreast of current professional standards. The teaching provides a core level of knowledge based on the current Dental Sedation Teachers Group guidelines which is appropriate to postgraduate education. Mainstream techniques (intravenous midazolam and Relative Analgesia) are covered in detail. Alternative and more advanced conscious sedation techniques are also discussed. Practitioners are encouraged to further their core knowledge with assisted / mentored practical training. Advanced techniques must only be considered where practitioners have considerable experience and appropriate clinical supervision.

Course Content:

• Aspects of anxiety and pain control, treatment planning and patient assessment. The use of behavioural management, selection and appropriate use of drugs for sedation techniques.
• Physiology, anatomy and pharmacology relevant to Conscious Sedation.
• Organisation of the dental team, medico-legal aspects of sedation, record keeping, psychological and physiological monitoring of the sedated patient.
• Revision of the requirements of the General Dental Council in relation to the provision of Basic Life Support. Current UK Resuscitation Council Guidelines will be provided.
• Clinical cases of various conscious sedation techniques are assessed and practitioners may have practical experience of Relative Analgesia.

Practitioners completing the SAAD Course are strongly advised to gain further practical and clinical experience, under the guidance of a practitioner experienced in the use of Conscious Sedation techniques.