IV sedation means the patient is given a calming medicine through a small plastic tube (cannula) in their arm or hand. The medicine helps them feel relaxed during their treatment.

This is not a general anaesthetic – the patient will not be fully asleep. They will still be able to talk, but they may not remember the procedure afterwards.

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What are your responsibilities?

• You must come with the patient and stay in the department’s waiting area for the whole appointment.
• You must not leave the hospital while the patient is sedated.
• You will need to look after the patient when they go home and for the next 24 hours.
• You must take the patient home in a private car or taxi – not public transport.
• Hospital transport (ambulance) is not allowed.
• You must not have any other care duties (e.g., looking after children or dependent adults) while responsible for the sedated patient.
• Children under 16 and dependent adults cannot attend the appointment with you.

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After the appointment

For 24 hours the patient must NOT:

• Drive or cycle
• Go back to work
• Use machinery or household appliances (cooker, iron, etc.)
• Drink alcohol or take recreational drugs
• Make important decisions or sign legal papers
• Shop online or post on social media
• Look after young children or dependent adults

The patient MUST:

• Go home straight away and rest indoors
• Take their normal medicines at the usual times unless advised otherwise by a healthcare professional