Non-invasive respiratory volume monitoring for quantification of respiratory depression after benzodiazepine administration

Benzodiazepines are used in many of settings to induce sedation, but can cause a reduction in respiratory drive. Objective monitoring of the effect of benzodiazepines on respiratory status in non-intubated patients has been difficult, putting patient safety at risk. A non-invasive respiratory volume monitor (RVM) that provides continuous measurement of minute ventilation (MV), tidal volume (TV) and respiratory rate (RR) was used to quantify the effects of midazolam on respiratory status in spontaneously breathing patients.