Induction
The phase of anesthesia administration during which a patient transitions from full consciousness to an anesthetized or sedated state sufficient for the planned procedure.
Full Definition
In dental anesthesiology, induction refers to the initial period of drug administration that brings the patient to the desired level of sedation or general anesthesia. Induction may be achieved intravenously (using agents such as propofol or ketamine), by inhalation (using sevoflurane via mask), or intramuscularly in uncooperative pediatric patients. The induction phase carries the highest risk for airway complications, hemodynamic instability, and adverse drug reactions, and therefore demands continuous monitoring and documentation. Induction agents and doses, route, time, and patient response must be recorded precisely in the anesthesia time record. Editors reviewing clinical documents should ensure that 'induction' is not used interchangeably with 'sedation onset,' as induction specifically implies the beginning of a defined anesthetic sequence.
Usage
Usage note: When used without qualification, 'induction' refers to general anesthesia induction; qualify explicitly (e.g., 'sedation induction') if referring to a lesser depth.
In Context
- "Induction was achieved with IV propofol 120 mg over 60 seconds at 08:47." — Anesthesia time record
- "The training module covered the physiological changes that occur during induction of general anesthesia." — Continuing education curriculum