Should we worry if patient has not recovered from drug induced coma after accident?
Patient: My husband was put into a drug induced coma a week ago, following a road traffic accident.  The sedation was removed on Thursday evening but he still hasn't come round.  The staff on ICU don't seem overly concerned as his temperature, blood pressure, etc are normal and he is breathing on his own.  Should we be worried? Doctor: Hi,Your husband's injuries must have been serious if he has needed ICU care therefore it will be a slow process of recovery. His care will be complex and it would be impossible to make a detailed judgement on his prospects. It sometimes does take some time for the effects of drugs to wear off in patients in ICU. Your husband will be in good hands in the ICU and I suggest you keep in touch with the staff who will give you the best information on his progress.I hope he makes a speedy recovery.Regards,Dr K A Pottinger,MBChB  FRCA