Evidence of Learning #2 

 
Shravya Kolli 
 
Subject: IV Sedation 
 
Analysis:  
On my second mentor visit, I had the opportunity to shadow a dental 
anesthesiologist while she conducted an IV sedation. Prior to this, I knew my 
mentor dr. kelli was doing an extraction however I didn’t know what all it 
was going to take. The dental anesthesiologist begins by taking her vital 
signs and inserting an IV into her hand and sedating her. At the end of this 
procedure, I thought the tired thing was very fascinating and interesting 
to learn more about so I decided to take this opportunity and research the 
background behind sedation. 
Many times, nitrous oxide also known as Laughing gas, is given to 
children to help them relax for their dental treatment. Dangerous oxide is 
given to a small breathing mask which is placed over the kids nose allowing 
them to be put to sleep.. This technique is a very safe and effective way for 
treating children’s dental needs as it is non-addictive. Another type of 
sedation is conscious sedation which is offered to kids who are very young 
or children with special needs. This can help calm your child and help to 
reduce the anxiety that is associated with dental procedures. Side effects 
include drowsiness and may even fall asleep during the procedure.  
Prior to the procedures, the doctor will ask if the child is sick or has 
any illness. They will also further ask if they are taking any medication and 
any allergies. Prior to their sedation appointment, your child should not 
have solid food for at least 6 hours prior to their sedation and only clear 
liquids for up to 4 hours before the appointment. After the procedure your 
child may be drowsy or having the sensation of vomiting, if this occurs, 
bend over and turn their head to the side to ensure that they do not 
inhale the vomit. If your child is sleepy, place them on their side with their 
chin up. Wake your child every hour and encourage them to have 
something to drink in order to prevent dehydration. The first meal should 
be light and easily digestible. 
IV sedation in the world of dentistry can have its pros and cons, for 
example, it can be very calming and relaxing as we will put them in a state of 
PA peaceful relaxation you can also be short a visit and they can reduce the 
amount of pain. The cons of having a visitation is that since the medicine 
can affect your reflexes leading to temporary physical impairment. Another 
con is any additional costs and different dosages that are offered with 
different procedures. Many times, many kids and parents prefer iv sedation as 
it is a safe and protective way during dental procedures.