after IV Sedation

Please read the following instructions for IV sedation thoroughly and carefully. It is imperative that these instructions be followed for a successful recovery after surgery with IV sedation. Feel free to contact our office with any questions or concerns.

A RESPONSIBLE ADULT MUST ACCOMPANY YOU TO THIS APPOINTMENT AND MUST STAY ON OUR PREMISES DURING THE ENTIRE SURGICAL APPOINTMENT.

A hired driver (such as Uber, Lyft, or taxi) is NOT considered a responsible adult for purposes of accounting for the patient’s welfare and should not be solely responsible for the patient.

FOLLOWING SURGERY

  • Go home immediately. Have a responsible adult stay with you for at least the next 12 hours after your procedure.

  • Rest is the biggest key to recovery. Prioritize rest for the next 24–48 hours.

  • Recline with head elevated to avoid choking on the gauze packs. If bleeding has ceased when you arrive at home, remove gauze and do not replace it.

  • Apply ice packs if recommended and rotate periodically with breaks to prevent frostbite. Typical intervals include 20 minutes on/20 minutes off, or 30 minutes on/30 minutes off.

  • Nausea and vomiting may occur. Sipping on flat ginger ale or ice chips can help. If nausea does not subside after 3 hours, contact Dr. Burns to avoid dehydration.

  • Slowly introduce food before taking the first dose of antibiotic and pain relief medications, within 30 minutes of arriving home.

  • Dizziness and fatigue are also common side effects. Avoid standing up too quickly.

  • Follow the post-operative instructions for your specific type of surgery.

  • NO SMOKING OR VAPING FOR AT LEAST 1 WEEK FOLLOWING ANY ORAL SURGERY PROCEDURE.

  • NO alcoholic beverages or recreational drugs, including marijuana, for 24 hours or while under the influence of narcotic medications.

  • DO NOT drive a vehicle, operate heavy machinery, nor attempt strenuous exercise for 24 hours or while under the influence of any medications. Return to these activities only after you are fully alert and your coordination has returned to normal.

  • Avoid making any major decisions or signing important documents for 24 hours after the procedure.

CONTACT OUR OFFICE IMMEDIATELY IF YOU EXPERIENCE:

  • Fever over 101.5°F

  • Severe pain that is not controlled by medication

  • Excessive bleeding or swelling

  • Difficulty breathing or swallowing

  • Uncontrolled nausea lasting longer than 3 hours

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