Which medication is commonly used for procedural sedation in emergency situations?

Ketamine is a medication commonly used for procedural sedation in emergency situations due to its unique properties. It is classified as a dissociative anesthetic, which means it can induce a trance-like state while providing pain relief, sedation, and amnesia. This makes it particularly useful in emergency settings where rapid sedation is needed for procedures such as intubation, setting fractures, or performing other interventions that could be painful or distressing for the patient.

In addition to its effectiveness, ketamine has a relatively quick onset of action and a short duration of effects, allowing for rapid recovery, which is crucial in emergencies. Unlike some other sedatives, it also preserves airway reflexes, making it a safer choice for patients who may be at risk of respiratory compromise. This balance of sedative effects and the maintenance of protective airway reflexes makes ketamine a preferred option in the emergency medical setting.