An 8-year-old child is receiving moderate sedation for a medical procedure. the nurse is assessing the child's level of sedation. his gag reflex is intact, he's breathing comfortably on his own, and he opens his eyes on verbal request. the nurse recognizes that the child is:

Conscious sedation or moderate sedation refers to a medication utilized at the time of the processes to assist one feel calm and relaxed. In this, one will be awake and would possess the tendency to follow the instructions without any pain or anxiety. Moderate sedation can be used for processes like wound repair, colonoscopy, dental work, or cataract removal.  

During moderate sedation, the patient reacts purposefully to verbal commands, either alone or complemented by light tactile stimulation. In the given case, as the child is responding appropriately towards the verbal request, it suggests that the child is suitably sedated.