It has been suggested that people in coma should not receive a lot of medications that have sedative side effects. However, they are often used. When this is the case, physicians will often use the medication for a short period of time, and attempt to decrease the dosage. When any medications are prescribed, it can be important that those who know the person best, such as family members, be vigilant to observe any deterioration in functioning. These have been used to treat some individuals in coma, but have not always been found to be effective.
Sensory stimulation is one way that many coma programs attempt to increase arousal.
Nursing Care Nursing involves the monitoring of all body systems. A nurse attempts to maintain the persons medical status, anticipate potential complications and work to restore a persons functioning. Nursing practice for the person in a coma usually requires monitoring vital signs and assessing all peripheral pulses on a regular basis. In addition, circumferential leg measurements will probably be performed to monitor for deep-vein thrombosis. A rehabilitation nurse will frequently take notice of and document skin color and temperature changes, food and liquid intake, and bowel and bladder functioning.