Moderate Sedation for Adult and Pediatric Patients
This is used to help patients relax and/or feel sleepy during a procedure or test. It helps to decrease pain if the procedure is painful. The patient may be almost asleep but easy to wake up and able to answer questions.
When is it given?
This is used for minor surgeries and certain types of scans or tests. This may be given in the hospital or in a clinic. You will be told before these tests or scans if this type of sedation will be used.
How is it given?
The patient may be given drugs as a pill, through an IV (intravenous line) or a shot. In some areas, pediatric patients may also inhale drugs through a mask. An IV is a small tube that is placed in a vein in the arm. Fluids and drugs can also be given through an IV. Once the IV is placed it should not hurt. The patient’s arm may feel cool because the fluids are cooler than her body is.
What else can be expected?
The patient may be asked not to eat or drink before the sedation. Ask the doctor or nurse how to prepare ahead of time.
What happens during the sedation?
The adult patient’s temperature, pulse and blood pressure will be checked while the patient is sedated. Pediatric patients will have heart rate and oxygen levels checked, and possibly the blood pressure. The adult patient will be asked questions such as. How are you doing? Do you have any pain? Are you short of breath? The patient will need to answer those questions. The patient may have a heart rhythm monitor placed during this time. Breathing and oxygen level will also be watched. The patient may receive oxygen during this procedure. A doctor or nurse will always be with the patient during moderate sedation.
How willthe patient feel?
If this is done as an outpatient, the patient will stay at least a half hour and as long as needed to recover after the test. The patient may have short-term blurred vision, nausea and feel dizzy. This will go away as the drugs leave the body. The patient may not recall much about the test after it is done. The sleepy feeling does not last long. The patient will feel back to normal in a short time. Plan to take it easy. Keep in mind this is not a good time to make big decisions or sign legal papers. Patients must have someone drive them home.
The information provided should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
Last Updated: 12/07/2011
Copyright © 12/07/2011 University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics Authority. All rights reserved. Produced by the Department of Nursing. UWH #5821
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