Pediatric Sedation Services FAQ

• Why does my child need sedation?
  Diagnostic testing and procedures performed in a hospital setting can sometimes be overwhelming for children. They may be uncomfortable or require your child to lie very still. Pediatric sedation allows the test or procedure to be completed safely and with more accurate results. It also helps minimize any fear or discomfort your child may experience.
• Who will give the sedation to my child?
  A pediatric critical care physician will administer the sedation, along with the help of a registered nurse with PALS (Pediatric Advanced Life Support) certification and a certified child life specialist. Each member of this team closely monitors your child throughout the entire procedure.
• What home preparation is needed?

  The most important thing to remember is that your child is not allowed to have anything to eat or drink for several hours before the test or procedure. Having an empty stomach decreases the risks of nausea, vomiting and breathing liquids or fluids into the lungs.

  If your child is taking behavioral or seizure medications, they may take these medications at the normal time with only a teaspoon of water. Any other medications can be given when your child wakes up from sedation. If necessary, please administer breathing treatments before arriving at the hospital, and bring any inhalers your child may need with you.

  A representative from North Central may contact you before your child’s sedation to collect important information including medications and medical history. They will also provide you with the requirements for sedation and answer any questions you may have.

• What if my child eats, drinks or feels ill the day of the procedure?
  If your child eats or drinks anything before sedation, please contact North Central, as we may need to reschedule the procedure. Also contact us if your child has a fever, stuffy or runny nose or is vomiting the day of the procedure. Any cancellation or rescheduling of the procedure is done with your child’s best interest in mind.
• What will occur the day of the procedure?
  When you arrive at North Central, our sedation team will explain the entire procedure to you and your child. In order to administer the sedation correctly, your child may require an IV. You are usually able to stay with your child until he or she is sedated, depending upon the type of procedure. Once your child is sedated, we may ask you to wait in the waiting room so we can give your child the attention he or she deserves.
• How long can we expect to be at the hospital?
  The time it will take your child to recover from sedation depends on the test or procedure performed, as well as your child’s individual needs. Recovery time can range from as little as 30 minutes to two or more hours.
• How will my child feel afterward?
  Some children will feel sleepy and clumsy for several hours. Once the sedation has worn off and your child is awake, he or she may return to a normal diet unless they have been instructed otherwise. On the day of the procedure, it is best to plan some quiet time at home so you can watch your child closely until he or she is completely back to normal.