This page gives you information about what to expect on leaving the Emergency Department after having had sedation.

You have been given a sedative medication to assist with your procedure. You may experience a short period of memory loss during the time the sedation is effective. This medication may also impair your judgment for up to 24 hours. Sedation is safe with very few side effects but most patients have feelings of tiredness afterwards. Some people may believe they are fine and unaffected by the medication but their reactions will be slower. This is similar to how some people may feel after having alcohol.

When leaving the Emergency Department

  • You must have someone to take you home
  • You should have someone at home with you for the next 12 hours
  • You may feel sick after sedation so we suggest that you avoid eating large meals for 24 hours
  • We advise you rest

During the next 24 hours

  • Do not drive or ride a bicycle
  • Do not drink alcohol
  • Do not operate machinery or appliances (e.g. kettle or cookers)
  • Do not sign any legally binding documents
  • Do not care for any dependent adults or children without responsible help

Contact

If you have any concerns within 24 hours of receiving sedation, please contact:

Emergency Department

Cheltenham General Hospital

Tel: 0300 422 3049

Gloucestershire Royal Hospital

Tel: 0300 422 5104

Printable version of this page

Discharge instructions after having received sedation GHPI1027_02_22 Department: Emergency Medicine Review due: February 2025 PDF, 98.2 KB, 2 pages
Reference number GHPI1027_02_22
Department Emergency Medicine
Review due February 2025