Sedation

• Sedation is not routinely given.
• If required, your doctor needs to order and pre-arrange this with our department.
• We use mild sedatives (Chloral Hydrate or Chlorpromazine) which are usually given by mouth.
• If your child has had an adverse reaction to these medications before or you know they will be ineffective for sleep, please contact your doctor so other arrangements can be made. 
• We are not able to give any other sedatives in our department.

Why sedate?

Preparation for Sedation

Must be pre-arranged:

• A sedated test MUST be ordered by the doctor at the time the appointment is booked as we must have a nurse present to administer the sedation and to monitor your child; we cannot sedate unless this has been pre-arranged.

• Please tell us if your child has reacted adversely to sedation in the past.

Fasting instructions:

• Please call (604) 875-2124

Sleep deprived as well:

• Sedation is most effective when children are tired, so they should be sleep-deprived as well. See Sleep Deprivation.
• No naps in car on the way to the department!
• Please bring anything that normally helps your child relax (blanket, stuffed animal, music, DVD, etc.).
• Note:  Sleep deprivation is NOT necessary for EMG & Nerve Conduction Studies.

Website updated December 2009.