Procedural Sedation — Discharge — Clinical Pathway: Emergency Department

Procedural Sedation Clinical Pathway — Emergency Department

Discharge

Discharge Criteria

The patient can be discharged if they meet one of the following:

  • Recovery Score is 6
  • Patient is back to baseline status and has been observed for 1 hour post procedure

Discharge Education

What is sedation/anesthesia

  • Many tests and procedures require that children remain still for a few minutes to several hours.
  • Sedation and anesthesia medicines help children to relax and sometimes, to fall asleep.
  • Some children also need pain medicine to help them remain comfortable during procedures.

What to Expect at Home

  • The medicines used to relax your child will wear off slowly. When you go home, your child may be sleepy or unsteady while walking.
  • Your child may return to a normal schedule and activities tomorrow.

Please follow these instructions

Children

  • Your child will need to be watched closely at home.
  • Carry your child to the car or hold her hand.
  • Use the correct car seat for your child’s age and size.
  • Do not let your child walk or play alone.
  • Encourage quiet activities.
  • Your child should not participate in any physical sports.

Teenager/Adult

  • An adult must drive you home and stay with you for a few hours.
  • For the next 24 hours, DO NOT:
    • Drive a car or perform activities that require you to be wide awake
    • Drink any alcoholic beverages
    • Sign important papers or make important decisions
    • Perform any activity that requires coordination (i.e. sports)

What may my child eat or drink after sedation/anesthesia?

  • The first meal should be something light, such as soup and crackers. Progress to normal diet as tolerated. Avoid spicy foods.
  • Infants may have formula or breast milk. Offer solid foods that are soft and bland, such as blended baby food and pudding. Prop infants on their side after eating.

Can I continue my child’s regular medicines after sedation/anesthesia?

  • Restart routine over-the-counter or prescription medicine as directed by your healthcare team.
  • If you have any problem or questions about your medicine, contact your child’s primary healthcare provider.

When should I call my child’s healthcare team?

  • Please call if you have any questions or concerns.
  • Also call us if you see the following within 24 hours after your child receives sedation/anesthesia medicines:
    • Trouble breathing, wheezing, feeling short of breath
    • Dizziness not relieved with rest
    • Rash or itching
    • Unable to drink liquids
    • Not urinating 5-6 times daily
    • There may be some vomiting as your child recovers from the medicines. Check with your healthcare team to discuss what is expected for your child and when you should call us.