Sedation for radiological procedures

The goal of sedation is to help us maintain children's safety and cooperation during their radiological study or procedure.

Sedation means that we give children medicine to help them fall asleep before the procedure. We also give medicine to relieve pain when it is needed. Usually, sedation medicine is injected into a vein. It is administered by the specially trained sedation nurse, under the direction of our pediatric hospitalist physicians.

We recommend sedation for children under 10 years of age, if they require pain or anxiety control measures, or if they are developmentally delayed. You may call us at 773. 880.4451, and we will help you decide what is best for your child.

FAQ's

Q: Why do children sometimes need sedation?
A: Many radiological studies and procedures require children to stay very still for a long period of time. Depending on the children's age and maturity, they may not be able to do this by themselves.

Q: How do you monitor children while they are asleep?
A: Each child is assigned their own nurse from the sedation team. A physician is also in the area at all times.

Q: Are there any risks in giving children sedation?
A: A member of the sedation team will call you to talk about your child. We will create a sedation plan based on his or her special needs. If you have further questions about this, please call us at 773.880.4451.

Q: How do I prepare my child for sedation?
A: A member of the sedation team will call you with instructions. In addition, please follow the sedation preparation instructions for your child's age.

Q: How long does sedation take?
A: The average visit for a child receiving sedation is four hours, however this can change based on the needs of your child. Most of the time, children are admitted and discharged on the same day.

Q: When will my child wake up?
A: We will allow your child to sleep as long as is needed to complete the procedure. After it is done, your sedation nurse will decide when to wake her up based on your child's personal sedation plan.

Q: What can my child eat when she wakes up?
A: We will offer light foods and clear liquids at first. Because dizziness and nausea can occur, we recommend staying away from greasy or spicy foods until the next day. The sedation nurse will guide you on the best plan for your child.

Q: How do I care for my child after we go home?
A: Often, children are very sleepy for the rest of the day. The sedation nurse will guide you on the best plan for your child. Most children are not steady on their feet and require supervision.

Q: Can my child go to school the next day? What about gym class?
A: This depends what time of the day your child was sedated and the length on time it takes for the sedation to wear off. Each child is different. Please talk to your sedation nurse during your visit to decide what is best for your child.