Correlation of the Bispectral Index Monitor with the COMFORT scale in the pediatric intensive care unit*

Abstract

The BIS monitor may be a valid and useful monitor of the level of sedation of children in the PICU. We cannot expect perfect correlation between BIS values and observational scales because they measure different variables. The BIS monitor may be the best objective monitor currently available for children receiving neuromuscular blockade because it does not rely on subjective measures such as those used in the COMFORT scale. The ability of the BIS monitor to distinguish between very deep levels of sedation may be useful to prevent over-sedation of children in PICUs and to help clarify the appropriate target level of sedation for each child.