Scan is thursday

[Addy]

My son Ethan's ct scan is this thursday and we both are so nervous. We opted to go no sedation, but I'm curious does anyone know if he can have a mild oral sedative to keep him calm? I'm going to phone the diagnostic clinic and ask. Wish us luck.

[MikenAustinsMommy]

With Austin, we did the no feeding for 5 or 6 (I can't remember) hours before the CT. I also woke him up 4 hours earlier than usual and kept him awake. He was miserable the whole car ride down there but as soon as it was time for the CT I fed him and he went to sleep within minutes.
Is his scan scheduled for about the same time he take his naps? If not, do you think you could sleep deprive him so he sleeps through the scan?

[Addy]

I could try that, but at 22 mos he doesn't fall asleep as easily in starnge surroundings. I wonder if they have a mild sedative like Ativan for children? Just to make him calmer. I now he will freak with nothing going into this scan. He doesn't even like doctors touching much less lying on a table for a scan. Your idea sounds like a good one I'll try and figure out how I can maybe do this, thx.

[yvonne680]

I don't know what the CT people will tell you but from my pediatric nursing experience... Ativan is not used commonly for young kids. What about some benadryl??

[Mom2William]

William was two 1/2 with the scan. A little older than yours but...
I was able to lie on the table on top of him and I held his hands and sang silly songs while we were in the "camera". It worked for him and only took about 5 minutes. I didn't let him eat or drink just in case he needed sedation.
The benadryl is a good idea too.

[Addy]

Thx ladies for the suggestions. The Benadryl sounds like a great one, but after thinking it out we've decided to go with sedation. The nurse and I talked and it just seemed the best option for Ethan as he gets very upset with any type of medical exam.
I'm really worried to get the results. How long did it take to get your scan results(approx)? Who discussed the results with you? Thx.

[Mom2William]

We got our scan results immediately. Once we had the CT scan we went upstairs to the dr. office and the PN went over results with us. Since he said we needed surgery, they fit us in to meet with the PS that same morning.
I think the sedation will be easier for you both. I hope you get the results the same day without having to go back into the office. I would take your list of questions for the PN with you.
Best wishes that everything goes smoothly.

[Addy]

Thx Kim I'll keep you posted :)

[Jennifer]

We didn't get our results for a while- but our CT was more of a formality- as she was already diagnosed and the surgery was already scheduled. I'd call the NS and see what they say- will the call you, do you have to schedule something, etc.....Good luck!

[Matthews Mommy]

Matthew did no sedation at 3 months old and 4 years old! It depends on the child he might be able to make it through without anyhting. I sang a soothing song and do it when he's napping or tired. It is over pretty quick. Hope that helps.

[Addy]

Thx for all the well wishes ladies it means alot to have support right now :)

Jennifer I think we are suppossed to be having a follow up appt with our neurologist, but don't know for certain. I'd rather hear the results from a neurosurgeon than the radiologist.

[Gavinsmom]

Hi, I remember going through that same dilemma with my son & choosing sedation because if he does move you will have to do it again & then you would be exposing him twice. But I would also suggest checking with the neurosurgeon to see if it is actually needed. I remember feeling like why did we go through that, the NS barely looked at it. All he had to do was feel his head and he knew it was fused.