POST-CARE INSTRUCTIONS FOR PATIENTS UNDERGOING INTRAVENOUS SEDATION
Getting Home: The patient must be accompanied by a responsible adult or, parent/legal guardian in the case of a child. Do not plan to drive a vehicle or operate potentially dangerous equipment for twenty-four hours after your treatment. You will not be allowed to leave alone by bus or taxi.
Home: A responsible adult/parent/legal guardian must be with the patient until the next day. After IV sedation , drowsiness may persist for quite a while even after you get home. If you are lying down, get up slowly and sit for a moment before standing. If you feel dizzy, ask a family member or friend for assistance
Pain or Fever: Muscle aches and a sore throat may occur (similar to the flu) after general anesthesia, but will usually disappear within 24 to 36 hours. Drugs such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen are usually very effective and should be taken at the first sign of pain (if normally tolerated). DO NOT USE ASPIRIN! Mild fever may develop in children during first 12 hours. Acetaminophen or ibuprofen every 4 hours with plenty of liquids will tend to alleviate this condition as well as treat post-operative discomfort.
Eating and Drinking: Limit oral intake to liquids for the first few hours. If teeth were extracted, do not use a straw. Soft food is well tolerated the first day. Suggestions include applesauce, yogurt, scrambled eggs, mashed potatoes, and soups. If the patient is not hungry, do not force her or him to eat, but do encourage liquid consumption. Please refrain from alcohol or any recreational drugs for 24hrs post-operatively.
Activity: Do not participate in strenuous physical activity for 24 hours or until the effect of the anesthetic have subsided completely. Judgment may be impaired during this time, therefore do not sign any binding legal documents for the subsequent 24 hours after the end of the anesthetic. For children; do not allow your child to swim, bike ride, or play with other children.
Seek Advice if: Vomiting persists beyond 2 hours. The temperature remains elevated beyond the first 6 hours or exceeds 101 degrees Fahrenheit, or any other matter causes you concern call our office.