<prompt> Which of the following is the definition of conscious sedation?A minimally depressed level of consciousness that retains the patients ability to independently and continuously maintain an airway and respond appropriately to physical stimulation or verbal command.A significantly depressed level of consciousness that retains the patients ability to independently and continuously maintain an airway and respond appropriately to physical stimulation or verbal command.A minimally depressed level of consciousness that retains the patients ability to independently and continuously maintain an airway.A significantly depressed level of consciousness that retains the patients ability to independently and continuously maintain an airway.  <response>: Conscious sedation is defined as a minimally depressed level of consciousness as opposed to deep sedation or general anesthesia. Remember that there are four stages of anesthesia analgesia delirium surgical anesthesia respiratory paralysis and only in the first stage analgesia is the patient conscious. The patient should be able to maintain an airway and respond to stimulation and command. 