Version July 2025
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What are discharge instructions? —
Discharge instructions are information about how to take care of your child after getting medical care in the emergency department ("ED").
What should I know? —
Your child was seen in the ED, and they had "sedation" during a procedure. Sedation means they were given medicines to make them relax and feel sleepy.
Because of the sedation, your child probably does not remember much about the procedure. It will take a little while for the medicines to fully leave their body.
The staff in the ED watched your child until they woke up and were able to eat and drink. Now, they think it is safe for your child to go home.
As your child recovers, they might be fussy or feel drowsy, lightheaded, unsteady, or confused for up to 24 hours. They might also feel nauseous or vomit.
How do I care for my child at home? —
Ask the doctor or nurse what you should do when you go home. Make sure you understand exactly what you need to do to care for your child. Ask questions if there is anything you do not understand.
You should also do the following:
●Call your child's regular doctor and tell them your child was in the ED. Make a follow-up appointment if you were told to.
●You, a family member, or a trusted friend should stay with your child as they recover.
●If your child vomits, have them take small sips of clear liquids like water, sports drinks, or ginger ale.
●Offer your child light foods until the sedation medicines wear off and they feel normal again. Start with saltine or graham crackers, popsicles, toast, or other bland foods. Avoid greasy, spicy, or fatty foods.
●It is OK to let your child sleep. If they sleep during the day, check on them every few hours. Make sure they wake up and recognize you.
●Help your child walk if they are unsteady. They are at a higher risk of falling for the next 24 hours.
●Plan quiet activities for the rest of the day. For at least 24 hours, do not let your child:
•Ride a bike, scooter, or skateboard
•Climb, or do other activities where they could get hurt
•Drive
•Operate machinery
When should I get emergency help?
●Return to the ED if:
•Your child has choking or coughing episodes, trouble breathing, or trouble swallowing.
•Your child is vomiting for more than 2 hours and can't keep down sips of clear liquids.
•You have trouble waking your child, or they don't recognize you.
•Your child slurs their words, and you can't understand them.
•Your child gets a fever above 100.4°F (38°C) within 24 hours of going home.
•After 6 hours, your child:
-Feels so tired they cannot stay awake
-Is not acting like themselves
-Starts to feel lightheaded, dizzy, or weak
When should I call the doctor? —
Call for advice if your child:
●Has new or worsening symptoms
Patient education: Sedation for procedures in children (The Basics)
