Version July 2025
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What are discharge instructions? —
Discharge instructions are information about how to take care of yourself after getting medical care for a health problem.
What is sedation? —
This means getting medicines to make you relax and feel sleepy. It can be used for different medical procedures and minor surgeries. With sedation, you might not remember the procedure when it is over. The staff monitors your heart rate and breathing carefully when you have sedation.
There are different levels of sedation:
●For most sedation, you will not remember the procedure. Sometimes, you might be able to talk, answer questions, and breathe on your own. This is also called "conscious sedation."
●With deeper sedation or general anesthesia, you cannot talk or answer questions. You might need help to breathe.
●Sometimes, your doctor will give you medicine to help you relax, but you will remember the procedure. This is sometimes called "minimal sedation."
Sedation is often combined with pain control if the procedure is expected to cause pain.
How do I care for myself at home? —
Ask the doctor or nurse what you should do when you go home. Make sure you understand exactly what you need to do to care for yourself. Ask questions if there is anything you do not understand.
For the rest of the day after the procedure:
●Do not drive or operate heavy or dangerous machinery.
●Do not make any important decisions or sign any important papers.
●Do not drink alcohol of any kind.
●Take extra care when moving about. You might be at a higher risk of falling.
When should I call the doctor? —
Call for advice if you:
●Have trouble breathing
●Vomit for more than 24 hours, or cannot keep fluids down
●Are dizzy
●Have any symptoms that worry you
Patient education: Sedation for procedures in adults (The Basics)
Patient education: Anesthesia in adults (The Basics)
Patient education: Monitored anesthesia care (The Basics)
Patient education: Nerve blocks (The Basics)
Patient education: Fasting before surgery (The Basics)
Patient education: Questions to ask if you are having surgery or a procedure (The Basics)
