What should be closely monitored with patients receiving sedation?

Patients receiving sedation require close monitoring of their heart rate and blood pressure because sedation can significantly affect the cardiovascular system. Sedative medications can depress the central nervous system, leading to alterations in vital signs. Specifically, sedation can cause bradycardia (slower heart rate) or hypotension (lower blood pressure), which can be serious and require immediate intervention. Monitoring these vital signs allows healthcare providers to quickly identify any adverse reactions or complications that may arise from the sedation, ensuring patient safety and appropriate care.

Other options, such as hunger levels, body temperature, or fluid intake, do not directly relate to the immediate risks associated with sedation. While they are important aspects of patient care, they do not have the same urgency or potential for immediate life-threatening changes as heart rate and blood pressure.