Our Emergency Department is very busy right now and some people are experiencing long waits. If you do not require emergency care, please use an alternative such as 111 online.
Your child will probably not remember what happened to them.
As the sedation wears off, your child may complain of symptoms such as:
- a headache
- feeling dizzy
- feeling sick
The sedation may also cause bad dreams.
Most symptoms wear off within six hours but may last for up to 24 hours.
Is there anything I need to be aware of at home, after sedation?
Your child should be closely supervised until they are fully awake and cooperative. This is because they may be more unsteady and drowsy than usual.
Wait for 2 hours after your child wakes from sedation to give them clear fluids to drink - this will reduce feelings of sickness, and vomiting.
It is safe to give paracetamol and ibuprofen for pain relief.
Is there anything to avoid?
Over the next 24 hours your child should:
- not be given any other medicine that may make them drowsy
- avoid sporting activities including swimming
- avoid using equipment such as bikes, climbing frames, and monkey bars
When can my child go back to school?
Most children are fine to return to school the next day
If you are at all worried about your child at home, please bring them back to the Emergency Department.
Reviewed by Dr L Sabir in February 2023, next review in February 2025.
