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Moderate Sedation in Children

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Apr 6, 2025.

What do I need to know about moderate sedation?

Moderate sedation is medicine given during a procedure or treatment to help your child feel relaxed and calm. It may also be given to help decrease your child's movement during a procedure or treatment. Your child will be awake and able to follow directions. Moderate sedation can be used for procedures such as wound repair, fracture reduction, or a lumbar puncture. The medicine may be given as a pill, shot, inhaled solution, or injection through an IV.

How do I prepare my child for moderate sedation?

What will happen during moderate sedation?

A healthcare provider may place an IV in your child's arm or hand. Your child's healthcare provider will give your child enough medicine to keep him or her relaxed and calm. Your child's heart rate, blood pressure, and breathing with be closely monitored.

What should I expect after moderate sedation?

What are the risks of moderate sedation?

Call your local emergency number (911 in the US) if:

When should I seek immediate care?

When should I call my child's doctor?

Care Agreement

You have the right to help plan your child's care. Learn about your child's health condition and how it may be treated. Discuss treatment options with your child's healthcare providers to decide what care you want for your child. 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.

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Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.