Sedation

What is sedation?

Many diagnostic imaging tests require children to remain completely still for a long period of time. Although we do our best to help your child through a test with distraction or other techniques, many children are unable to cooperate because of their age or developmental level. In order to get the best images, we may need to give your child medicine to make him or her sleepy. This is called sedation.

What happens when my child is sedated?

A Radiology team member, usually a nurse or physician assistant, will review your child's medical history and assess his or her current status to determine if it is safe to sedate your child. You will be asked about your child's medical history, medications, allergies and past response (if any) to sedation.

A specially trained nurse will work with you and a radiologist to determine the best sedation plan for your child. Children with certain risk factors may need to have their procedure or test scheduled with general anesthesia.

How is sedation given?

Most sedation medicines are given into a vein. You child will need to have an IV started in order to provide this medicine. Sometimes medicines can be given by mouth, depending on the child's age and the type of test he or she is having.

How is my child monitored when he or she is asleep?

A specially trained nurse will watch your child closely during sedation. The nurse will monitor your child's heart rate, breathing and oxygen levels. All the nurses are certified in pediatric advanced life saving and able to respond quickly to any changes in your child's condition.

Are there any risks in giving children sedation?

Prior to your procedure or test, a member of the staff will explain the risks of sedation to you. The sedation plan is created based on your child's special needs. We strive to provide the best and safest care for your child.

Sedation may not be safe if your child has a cold or cough. Please contact us if your child is ill on the day of the exam. Your child may need to come back another day when he or she is feeling better.

How do I prepare my child for sedation?

To keep your child safe during sedation, do not let your child eat or drink anything before sedation. Follow the guidelines below based on your child's age:

0- 5 months old:

• No food, milk, formula or breast milk four hours before the scan.
• May have clear liquids two to four hours before the scan. Clear liquids include apple juice, water or Pedialyte.
• Nothing to eat or drink two hours before the scan.

6 months and older:

• No food, milk formula or breast milk six hours before the scan.
• May have clear liquids two to four hours before the scan. Clear liquids include apple juice, water, white soda, Pedialyte, popsicles, clear broth, Gatorade and gelatin without fruit.
• Nothing to eat or drink two hours before the scan.

How long does sedation take?

The time needed for sedation will depend on the test being done and the medicine that is given to your child. Some medicines last longer and your child may need extra time to wake up. You should plan on being at the hospital for at least one hour. Many tests, such as MRI, may require you to be here longer. Infants under 9 months have special requirements and need to stay for a longer period of time. Your nurse will help you plan based on your child's age and the test your child is having.

What can my child eat when he wakes up?

We will make sure that your child has something clear to drink before you leave. You may let your child eat a normal diet as he or she feels more awake. Since sedation may cause dizziness and nausea, we recommend that you keep the first meal light and avoid greasy or spicy foods.

How do I care for my child after we go home?

After sedation, most children are sleepy the rest of the day. They may also be dizzy or unsteady on their feet. Have your child stay home the rest of the day. Your child may play quiet games but should not do activities such as riding a bike or climbing. On the day of the test, you will be given special instructions that will help you care for your child at home. Plan to watch your child closely for a full day after the sedation.