Dental intravenous (IV) sedation: Patient escort information

Community Dental Services

You have been asked to accompany someone who is having dental treatment under intravenous (IV) sedation.

Patients can feel less anxious if they receive IV sedation during their dental treatment.

However, this can cause some patients to feel a little dizzy, sick, confused and/or forgetful for up to 24 hours after the treatment, so it is important that there is someone to escort them as they leave the dental surgery, and to supervise them for 24 hours afterwards.

You should not be responsible for the care or supervision of any other person during this time, except the patient themselves. Patients will not be given this IV sedation treatment unless the dentist is satisfied that the patient is in the care of a responsible adult (over 18 years of age) who is not under the influence of alcohol or drugs and is able to physically assist the patient if required (mobility problems may impair this ability).

Some patients take longer than others to be ready to go home so please be aware that a precise time cannot be given.

You will need to stay in the waiting area while the patient is having treatment. You are not able to leave during this time as we may need to speak to you during their treatment.

The patient’s judgement (ability to think clearly) is likely to be impaired for up to 24 hours due to the drugs used for sedation.

For 24 hours, the patient should not:

drive a vehicle, ride a bicycle, operate machinery or use household appliances
cross the road unsupervised l drink alcohol l take sleeping tablets
go to school / college or work
make any irreversible decisions, sign legal documents or use social media
be responsible for any minors/others dependent on care

Please arrange to go home immediately after treatment, by private car or taxi. Do not use public transport.

The dentist will explain to the patient which pain relief medicines they may take. Patients should take their usual prescribed medicines unless directed otherwise by their doctor or dentist.

The patient will have been given a telephone number of who to contact if you have any concerns.

Thank you for taking time to read this leaflet. If you have any queries please ask the dentist who will be happy to answer any questions you might have.

Checklist for escorts

24 hour supervision after treatment
Able to stay in the waiting room during treatment
Physically able to assist the patient if needed
Not under influence of drink or drugs
Return home immediately by private car / taxi
Not responsible for any minors / others dependent on care during this time