Overview
Pediatric Sedation is a procedure used to provide safe and effective sedation for children undergoing diagnostic or therapeutic procedures.
Pediatric sedation is crucial for reducing anxiety, pain, and movement during procedures while maintaining patient safety.
Learn more in our comprehensive RxDx Pediatrics Course
Indications
MRI, CT scans
Minor surgeries
Dental work
Urgent interventions
Wound care, suturing
Contraindications
Absolute Contraindications
Relative Contraindications
📋 Equipment Checklist
Check off items as you gather them:
Pre-procedure Preparation
Preparation includes patient assessment, fasting guidelines, equipment setup, and monitoring preparation.Step-by-Step Procedure
Step 1: Patient Assessment
Assess patient, review history.
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid:
- Inadequate assessment
- Missed contraindications
💡 Pro Tip:
Check fasting status.
Step 2: Equipment Setup
Prepare monitoring and emergency equipment.
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid:
- Missing equipment
- Poor setup
💡 Pro Tip:
Use checklist approach.
Step 3: Medication Selection
Choose appropriate sedation agent.
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid:
- Wrong agent
- Inadequate dosing
💡 Pro Tip:
Consider patient factors.
Step 4: Administration
Administer sedation with proper technique.
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid:
- Wrong route
- Poor monitoring
💡 Pro Tip:
Monitor continuously.
Step 5: Procedure Monitoring
Monitor during procedure.
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid:
- Inadequate monitoring
- Missed complications
💡 Pro Tip:
Monitor vital signs.
Step 6: Recovery
Monitor recovery and discharge.
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid:
- Premature discharge
- Poor monitoring
💡 Pro Tip:
Use discharge criteria.
Master Sedation with RxDx
Access 100+ procedure videos and expert guidance with the RxDx app
Post-procedure Care
Post-procedure care involves monitoring recovery, discharge criteria, and follow-up instructions.Complications & Management
| Complication | Incidence | Signs | Management | Prevention |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Respiratory depression | 1-3% | Decreased SpO2, apnea | Airway support, reversal | Proper monitoring |
| Hypotension | 2-5% | Low blood pressure | IV fluids, vasopressors | Proper dosing |
| Allergic reaction | 0.1-1% | Rash, anaphylaxis | Epinephrine, steroids | Check allergies |
| Prolonged sedation | 1-2% | Delayed recovery | Extended monitoring | Proper dosing |
Clinical Pearls
Always check fasting status.
Use appropriate monitoring.
Have reversal agents ready.
Monitor continuously.
Document everything.
Use discharge criteria.
Be prepared for emergencies.