Deep Sedation

What do I need to know about deep sedation?

Deep sedation is medicine used during procedures to make you relaxed and very sleepy. With deep sedation, you may need help to breathe. Deep sedation may be used to help your body heal after an injury. The medicine is given as a pill, shot, inhaled solution, or injection through an IV.

When is deep sedation used?

Deep sedation is used when your muscles need to be relaxed. It may be used for people who need a ventilator. Deep sedation can be used for cardiac catheterization, craniotomy, or fracture repair.

What will happen during deep sedation?

Your healthcare provider will monitor your blood pressure, heart rate, and breathing. He may ask you questions to test your memory. You will react if healthcare providers shake or poke you and move away from anything used to cause discomfort.

What will happen after deep sedation?

You will be taken to a room to rest until you are fully awake. You will be monitored closely for any problems. You may not remember what happened during the procedure. Do not get out of bed until your healthcare provider says it is okay. You will then be able to go home or be taken to your hospital room. You may need any of the following as the sedation wears off:

  • Extra oxygen may be needed if your blood oxygen level is lower than it should be. You may get oxygen through a mask placed over your nose and mouth or through tubes placed in your nostrils. Ask a healthcare provider before you take off the mask or oxygen tubing.

  • A pulse oximeter measures the amount of oxygen in your blood. A cord with a clip or sticky strip is placed on your finger, ear, or toe. The other end of the cord is hooked to a machine. An alarm will sound if your oxygen level is low.

  • IV fluids that contain water, minerals, and sugar may be given.

  • A heart monitor , or EKG, will record your heart's electrical activity.

What are the risks of deep sedation?

  • Deep sedation may cause you to need help to breathe. You may get a headache or nausea from the medicine. You may not remember the recent past. Your skin may itch or your eyes may water. You may not get enough sedation or it may wear off quickly. You may feel restless during the procedure. If the medicine does not wear off as it should, you may need medicine to become more alert.

  • Too much medicine can cause you to be unconscious. Your healthcare provider may have trouble waking you up. Your breathing may not be regular, or it may stop. You may need a ventilator to help you breathe. Your risk for problems with sedation is higher if you have heart or lung disease, a head injury, or drink alcohol.

When should I contact my healthcare provider?

  • You have a fever.

  • You have a cough or headache.

  • You have an upset stomach or feel like vomiting.

  • You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.

When should I seek immediate care or call 911?

  • You have sudden trouble breathing.

  • You have a severe headache.

  • Your heart is beating fast or is pounding.

Care Agreement

