What to Expect on the Day

You may experience a short wait prior to being taken into the unit by one of the nurses.
There is a waiting room adjacent to the reception area. If you require using the toilet, the receptionists are happy to direct you. A nurse will escort you into the unit and check your personal identification details, medical history, allergies, etc. They will confirm your expected procedure and ensure you are aware of your rights and responsibilities.

You will then be escorted to a patient bay in the recovery area where you will be prepared for your procedure.
Your blood pressure and other vital observations will be recorded. The sedationist and the proceduralist (doctor) will both see you prior to being transferred to the procedure room. Please advise them of any concerns you may have.

The sedationist will insert a small cannula into your vein so he/she can administer the sedation medication.
At times there may be a short delay as some procedures may take longer than expected or urgent procedures from the hospital may take priority. This is rare but if it occurs the nursing staff will keep you informed of any delays or changes. You will be provided with a lockable cupboard/ drawer for any personal items. Please do not wear excess jewellery or bring unnecessary items. Phones are allowed but the sound should be muted.

When you are transferred to the procedure room, the nurses and doctors will verify your name and other personal identifiers to ensure the correct procedure will be attended.
This is a mandatory directive. If you have any concerns do not hesitate to confirm prior to your sedation.

Depending on the procedure you are having, it may take from 15 minutes to an hour.
During this time you will be sedated to ensure your comfort throughout the procedure. The sedationist will explain this to you prior to transferring to the procedure room. You will be monitored closely during and after the procedure. Oxygen will be administered either through a mask or similar device to ensure adequate oxygen is delivered throughout the period you are sedated.

After the procedure, you will be monitored in the recovery area for a time until you are fully awake.
This will generally take up to half an hour. After this time you will be offered some light refreshments and the nurses will contact the person you have allocated to collect you.

Before your discharge you will be seen by the proceduralist to give you an explanation of the findings.
The nurses will give you a copy of the report and other relevant post-procedure information. This information will be discussed with you prior to your discharge. Your blood pressure and other vital signs will be checked again and the needle used for sedation will be removed. The nurse will escort you out of the unit and into the care of your relative/ friend who will be escorting you home.