Currently, there are no established definitions or terminology for sedation-related adverse events (AEs). With clear terminology and definitions, sedation events may be accurately identified and tracked, providing a benchmark for defining the occurrence of AEs, ranging from minimal to severe. This terminology could apply to sedation performed in any location and by any provider. We present a consensus document from the International Sedation Task Force (ISTF) of the World Society of Intravenous Anaesthesia (World SIVA). The ISTF is composed of adult and paediatric sedation practitioners from multiple disciplines throughout the world.