Post Procedure

The patient should not leave resus until:

• They are spontaneously alert;
• Vital signs are normalised, and supplementary oxygen is not required;
• Pain and nausea (if present) are controlled;
• The sedation has been documented and any drugs used have been prescribed and signed for.

If being discharged home, the patient should not leave the emergency department until:

• At least two hours have elapsed since any reversal agent (flumazenil, naloxone), if used, was given.
• They have been able to drink water (and eat if appropriate);
• They have safely mobilised (if appropriate);
• They have passed urine (if appropriate).

The patient should be discharged into the care of a responsible adult, who should be with them for the next 24 hours. The patient must not drive for 24 hours post sedation. Written advice should be given. [5]