Ketamine-- how to prepare patients?

[u/rainbowsforeverrr]

Hi folks, ER nurse here. I'm curious how you talk to patients about ketamine admin for procedures or for intractable pain relief. I give it fairly often but I still haven't found the right way to prepare patients (or parents of littles) for the psychotropic effects. I've never used ketamine personally, but it seems to be a very intense experience that ought to be part of the informed consent conversation. What is our ethical obligation?

[u/mrsmidnightoker]

I tell them to think of a nice place they want to go. Then I put on lovely music. I do maybe beach scene with Hawaiian music or reggae. Maybe some Marvin Gaye or other chill calming music. Sometimes Led Zeppelin. The are very suggestible the whole time so I talk in a soothing voice describing the beach etc, “oh look that that beautiful sand and the waves, you’re on your beach chair with a drink, the sun feels so lovely warm on your face, you’re safe.” That kind of thing. I usually do Disney music for kids. People love it. I started doing it after a couple people had terrifying experiences. I’ve been doing it with the above for years now and not a single bad experience. Often actually really amazing, some have been transcendent. Some cry and say it was the most amazing experience they’ve ever had lol. The nurses and staff love it too and the whole thing is fun for everyone.