Your Child’s Sedation Process

Preparing for Your Child’s Procedure

Preparing for your child’s sedation can help make the process smoother and more comfortable for your child.

Once your child’s doctor orders a test, our scheduling department will contact you to set up an appointment. During this time, you’ll complete a sedation screening, and we’ll provide fasting instructions while answering any questions you may have.

Here’s how you can prepare:

• Bring comfort items- A favorite toy, blanket or stuffed animal can help your child feel more at ease.
• Discuss medications with your doctor
• Follow eating and drinking guidelines
• Arrange for aftercare- Plan to stay with your child after the procedure, as they may feel groggy or need extra care at home.
• Prepare food and drinks- Your child may be hungry when they wake up from sedation. You may bring snacks, drinks, a baby bottle or formula to offer your child while they’re in the recovery area.

On the Day of Your Child’s Procedure

On the day of your child’s sedation process, here’s what you can expect:

Checking In at the Hospital or Clinic

Arrive at the scheduled time, usually an hour and a half before the procedure. You’ll complete any necessary paperwork. Bring your ID and insurance card.

Meeting Your Child’s Care Team

A pediatric sedation specialist will explain the process and answer any questions you have. We’ll review your child’s health history with you.

Sedating Your Child

Sedation is given through:

• Orally, by mouth (your child drinks liquid)
• Intranasally (spray into your child’s nostrils)
• Intramuscularly (an injection into your child’s muscle)
• Intravenously (an injection into your child’s vein)
• Inhaled gas using a facemask
• A combination of the above

If an IV is needed, we use a numbing cream so your child feels comfortable. For some procedures, parents are allowed to remain with their child during the full procedure. For procedures where parents can’t stay, the team will direct you to a waiting area after your child falls asleep.

Children with Special Needs

Please let our team know if your child has any special needs. We understand how important routine and a supportive environment are for helping your child have a successful and comfortable day. We will do our best to accommodate scheduling needs and make environmental adjustments – such as softer lighting, reduced sounds and limiting the number of staff – to create the setting that best supports your child. 

Monitoring Your Child for Safety

Throughout the procedure, your child’s vital signs will be closely monitored to ensure they are safe and comfortable.

Waking Your Child Up and Recovering

After the procedure, your child will wake up in a recovery area. That is where the care team will monitor your child until they are ready to go home. If you're in the waiting area, a care team member will come get you so you'll be there when your child wakes up. If your child is hungry after they wake up, we have age-appropriate snacks available, or they can eat food brought from home.

Discharging and Leaving

A nurse will give you instructions at discharge for when your child can return to activities. Most children can attend school the next day.

Side Effects of Sedation

It’s normal for children to experience mild side effects after sedation. These may include:

• Dizziness or unsteadiness
• Drowsiness or grogginess
• Irritability or fussiness
• Nausea or vomiting

These side effects are usually temporary and should improve within a few hours. If you have concerns, contact your child’s doctor.

What to Do After Your Child’s Procedure

After your child’s sedation, they may be sleepy for several hours so allow time to rest. Avoid any activity that could make them unsteady.

If you see any unusual symptoms, like severe vomiting, difficulty breathing or prolonged drowsiness, contact their doctor or go to the closest emergency department. 

Canceling or Rescheduling Sedation

Sedation may not be performed if your child is sick with a cough, cold, fever or vomiting. If your child has any of these symptoms, please call our sedation team at (309) 655-3487.