Pre-Anesthesia Instructions for Patients

EATING OR DRINKING

For Anesthesia it is extremely important that patients have an empty stomach. For this reason, children should not have any food or drink from 10:00 pm the night before the appointment until the appointment is finished the next day.

CHANGE IN HEALTH

Any change in health, especially the development of a cold, cough, flu or fever is extremely important information for the anesthesiologist. Please notify our office if there is any change in your child’s health.

MEDICATIONS

Please contact our office to review medications and receive instructions about taking them prior to the procedure.

CLOTHING AND CONTACTS

Short sleeves, loose fitting pants and comfortable shoes are advised. It is suggested to bring a change of clothing and a small blanket for your child. If they are in diapers, have them wear one.

DESIGNATED DRIVER

A responsible adult must accompany the patient to the office and remain during the procedure. You will not be allowed to leave by bus. If you cannot be with them, arrange to have a responsible adult spend the rest of the day with your child.

QUESTIONS

Prior to your child’s anesthesia, our office will contact you to discuss your anesthesia and answer any questions that you may have.

Post-Anesthesia Instructions for Patients

EATING, DRINKING

Limit your child’s oral intake to liquids for the first few hours. Begin with water and follow with liquids such as sport drinks and clear juice as tolerated. If teeth were extracted, do not use a straw. Food can be consumed following liquids as tolerated. Suggestions are soft foods such as scrambled eggs, applesauce, mashed potatoes, and soups. If your child is not hungry, do not force him/her to eat, but encourage as much liquid as tolerated. Local anesthetics can numb lips and tongue, so watch that your child doesn’t bite or chew on their tongue or lips.

ACTIVITY

Your child should not engage in moderate to high level physical activity for 24 hours and/or until the effects of the anesthetic has completely subsided. The effects of anesthesia may be seen for the remainder of the day and the patient may sleep a lot or be groggy and lethargic. This is normal and should resolve by the next day. Children should be under supervision for the remainder of the day. Right after the appointment, they may need assistance in walking. For safety reasons, keep them away from stairs.

NAUSEA AND VOMITING

This is the single most common side effect of anesthesia. If you notice this, encourage your child to continue to drink water to avoid dehydration. It may be possible to have vomiting for as long as one whole day. If a fever results contact Dr. Lee.

WHEN TO CALL DR. LEE

If vomiting persists beyond 5 hours
If temperature remains elevated beyond 24 hours or goes above 101°F
If there is difficulty breathing
If you have any questions or concerns

(425)401-1366 Office phone

After the procedure is finished, Dr. Lee will provide you with his personal cell phone number.

A physical examination is often required by your child’s dental office prior to dental care. This physical examination provides information to ensure the safety of the general anesthesia procedure. Your pediatric dentist will advise you about evaluation appointments that are required.

Parents are instructed to report to the pediatric dentist any illness that occurs prior to the general anesthesia appointment. It may be necessary to reschedule the appointment. It is very important to follow instructions regarding pre-operative fasting from fluids and foods. Your child should not have anything to eat or drink after 10:00 pm the night before the appointment. That also means no water or brushing teeth.

Usually patients are tired following general anesthesia. Your child will be discharged when they’ve opened their eyes and you are ready to depart. You will be instructed to let your child rest at home with minimal activity planned until the next day. Post-operative dietary recommendations will also be given.