Deep Sedation in Children

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 4, 2025.

Deep sedation may be used during painful procedures such as bandage changes, repair of a laceration, or drainage of an abscess. Deep sedation may be given to prevent your child from moving during a test, such as a lumbar puncture or bone biopsy. Your child cannot be easily woken up during deep sedation, and he or she may need help to breathe. After sedation you may notice that your child has problems with short-term memory. Your child may be sleepy and need frequent naps after he or she goes home. Your child may also feel weak or have trouble with his or her balance. These symptoms should go away in 24 hours or less.

DISCHARGE INSTRUCTIONS:

Call your local emergency number (911 in the US) or have someone call if:

Your child cannot be woken.
Your child has trouble breathing.

Seek care immediately if:

Your child complains of a severe headache or dizziness, or cries constantly.
Your child's heart is beating faster than usual.

Call your child's doctor if:

Your child has a fever or chills.
Your child has nausea or is vomiting for longer than 8 hours after the procedure.
Your child's skin is itchy, swollen, or he or she has a rash.
You have questions or concerns about your child's condition or care.

Care for your child:

Watch your child closely for the next 24 hours. Do not leave your child alone in the bath or shower. Do not let your child cook, use appliances, or play outside unless you are watching him or her.
Limit your child's activity to prevent accidents. Have your child lie on the couch or rest quietly. Walk with your child to the bathroom. Do not let your child play sports or do vigorous activity. Do not let your child ride a bike, swim, play on swing sets, or play on jungle gyms. Your child can return to his or her normal activities in 24 hours.
Feed your child slowly to prevent nausea and vomiting. If your child is younger than 1 year, feed him or her half of the usual feeding 1 hour after sedation. Wait 2 hours after sedation to feed your older child. Start with clear liquids such as cranberry juice or ginger-ale. If your child does not vomit after clear liquids, start giving your child his or her usual foods. Make sure your child drinks plenty of liquids when he or she can drink without vomiting. Liquids help flush the medicine out of his or her body. Ask how much liquid to give your child and which liquids are best for him or her.

Follow up with your child's doctor as directed:

Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.

The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

Further information

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