Aftercare advice for parents of children given ketamine sedation in the Emergency Department

What is ketamine?

Ketamine is a medication used for sedating patients who need a brief painful or unpleasant procedure. The sedation lasts for about 30 minutes. Ketamine is injected into a vein via a drip.

Some patients will have unpleasant dreams either during the sedation or afterwards. This does not last long, and will have no lasting effects on your child.

What happens once the sedation has 'worn off'?

• Most patients can go home between 90 minutes to 2 hours after their sedation.

• Before leaving hospital your child must show that they are alert, talking, and walking without help.

• Some patients vomit after sedation, but this passes quickly.

How should I look after my child when we return home?

Your child may remain mildly sleepy or clumsy after the sedation. Make sure you watch them closely for the first 8 hours following their discharge from hospital. The following are a list of ‘Do’s and Don’ts’ to help with your child's recovery at home.

For the 24-hours after being sedated

• Make sure your child does:

  • rest

  • drinks plenty of fluids (such as water and squash)

  • eats a light diet (such as sandwiches or cereals), to limit the risk of vomiting

• Make sure your child does not:

  • get involved in strenuous or sporting activities

  • use play equipment, such as monkey bars and climbing frames

  • have a hot bath

What should I do if I have any concerns or questions?

If you have any concerns once you return home, please contact the Emergency Department for advice. Ask to speak to the senior doctor or nurse in the children's zone of the Emergency Department.

• Emergency Department, Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother (QEQM) Hospital, Margate
  Telephone: 01843 235030

• Emergency Department, William Harvey Hospital, Ashford
  Telephone: 01233 616207

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