CPT® Code 99148

Deleted

1. Indications

Moderate sedation services provided under CPT® Code 99148 are indicated for patients younger than five years of age who require sedation during diagnostic or therapeutic procedures. The following conditions may warrant the use of moderate sedation:

• Diagnostic Procedures Procedures that require the patient to remain still and relaxed, such as imaging studies or endoscopic evaluations.
• Therapeutic Procedures Interventions that may cause discomfort or anxiety, necessitating sedation for patient cooperation and comfort.
• Age Considerations Specifically for patients under five years old, where anxiety and discomfort may be heightened due to their developmental stage.

2. Procedure

The procedure for administering moderate sedation as described by CPT® Code 99148 involves several critical steps to ensure patient safety and comfort:

• Patient Assessment A thorough evaluation of the patient's medical history and current health status is conducted to determine the appropriateness of moderate sedation. This assessment includes reviewing any allergies, previous reactions to sedatives, and the patient's overall physical condition.
• Intravenous Line Insertion An intravenous (IV) line is established to facilitate the administration of fluids and sedative agents. This step is essential for ensuring that the sedative can be delivered quickly and effectively, allowing for rapid onset of sedation.
• Administration of Sedative Agent Once the IV line is in place, a sedative agent is administered. The choice of sedative and dosage is tailored to the individual needs of the patient, taking into account their age, weight, and medical history.
• Monitoring of Vital Signs Throughout the sedation process, the patient's oxygen saturation, heart rate, and blood pressure are continuously monitored. This monitoring is crucial for detecting any adverse reactions to the sedative and ensuring the patient's safety.
• Post-Procedure Monitoring After the completion of the diagnostic or therapeutic procedure, the physician or qualified healthcare professional continues to monitor the patient until they have fully recovered from the effects of the sedation. This includes ensuring that the patient is stable and can be safely transferred to nursing staff for ongoing care.

3. Post-Procedure

Following the administration of moderate sedation, it is essential to monitor the patient closely until they have recovered from the sedative effects. Recovery involves assessing the patient's responsiveness, vital signs, and overall stability. The healthcare professional providing the sedation will ensure that the patient is alert and able to follow simple commands before transferring them to nursing staff. Additional considerations include providing instructions to caregivers regarding post-sedation care, such as monitoring for any delayed reactions and ensuring that the patient is not left alone until fully recovered. The healthcare team must also document the sedation process, including the medications used, dosages administered, and the patient's response throughout the procedure.