Common Questions about Sedation
What is sedation?
Sedation is a drug-induced depression of consciousness during which your child typically sleeps. Your child may continue to move while being sedated but will not remember the procedure being performed.
Who provides sedation?
Pediatric physicians and pediatric advanced practice nurses administer deep sedation. This is a lighter level of sleep than full anesthesia, typically used for tests that are not painful.
What medications are used for sedation?
The medications chosen for sedation are based on your child's specific needs, medical history and the requirements of the procedure. The most commonly used medicines are propofol, pentobarbital, ketamine, dexmedetomidine and midazolam. The dose given is based on your child's weight.
How is the medication given?
Most deep sedation medications are given through a peripheral IV (a needle or tube placed in the vein). Most moderate sedation medicines are given by mouth or as nasal sprays.
How will my child be monitored?
We monitor your child's vital signs while the sedative medication is working. Vital signs include heart rate, blood pressure, respiratory rate and oxygen saturation. Your child may wear a small nasal tube during the sedation to monitor breathing.
How do I prepare my child for sedation?
Please follow these standards regarding when your child may consume food or drink.
- No solid foods for six hours prior to arrival time
- No breast milk for four hours prior to arrival time
- No clear fluids for two hours prior to arrival time
- Your child may take his or her regular medication with sips of water up to two hours prior to arrival time.
If these guidelines are not followed the sedation will be rescheduled.
How will you use my child's medical history?
Your child's medical history will help determine the optimal sedation medication. Please let us know if your child has any of the following medical conditions.
- Asthma or reactive airway disease
- Heart murmur or other cardiac disease
- Apnea or snoring
- Recent upper respiratory infection
- Gastrointestinal reflux
- Liver disease
What happens if we are late for the appointment?
Should you are 30 minutes late or more after your scheduled arrival time, the sedation service may need to reschedule your procedure.
Can I be with my child during the sedation procedure?
You may stay with their child as they go to sleep. Afterward, we will direct you to a waiting area.
When can my child return to regular activities and school?
Most children can return to school and regular activity by the next day. Some tests or procedures may require a longer recovery. Please talk to your nurse about recovery before you leave the hospital.
How do I obtain the results of the test or procedure my child was sedated for?
Contact the health care provider who ordered the test or procedure for results. The sedation team does not receive results for procedures.