Patients take control: Self-Sedation may ease anxiety in the ICU

This study tested whether critically ill patients on breathing machines could safely manage their own sedation using a button-controlled device. 161 adults in the ICU were randomly assigned to either self-manage their sedation or have it managed by a nurse. The goal was to see if self-management reduced anxiety, time on the ventilator, and confusion. The approach aims to give patients more control over their comfort during a stressful hospital stay.