Taking Your Child Home After General Anesthesia for MRI or CT Scan

You must have someone (age 16 or older) stay with your child for the rest of today and tonight. This is for your child’s safety and protection.

Your child may feel a little sleepy for the next 12 to 24 hours. This is partly due to the medicines received during and after the test. Your child should rest and relax for the next 12 hours. Avoid hazardous or strenuous activity.

Your child may have a mild to moderate sore throat for the next 24 hours. Call if the sore throat is severe or doesn’t go away.

The IV site may be tender for a while.

Diet

For the rest of today, start slowly and offer your child clear liquids such as water, apple juice, and soft drinks. When your child feels ready, it is okay to try soup, soda crackers, and other foods that are easy to digest.

Avoid milk products, spicy, or fatty foods. Be sure to give your child several glasses of clear liquids to avoid dehydration. The next day, you can let your child eat what they wish.

When to Call

• A fever above 100° F (by mouth) or 99° F (under the arm) for 2 readings taken 4 hours apart.

• Trouble breathing or a “wet sounding” cough that doesn’t go away.

• Frequent vomiting after getting settled at home (more than twice).

• Trouble urinating by late tonight (or has a painful, full bladder).
  

Your child’s anesthesiologist was Dr. ________________________.

Who to Call

608-262-0486 or 1-800-323-8942

Ask for the anesthesia doctor on call. Give your name and phone number with the area code. The doctor will call you back.

Our staff will try to call you at home or work within the next few days. We will ask a few questions about your child’s recovery and the care your child received. We wish your child a quick recovery.