In some circumstances when standard immunisation or other procedures such as blood tests are difficult to perform – such as in children with needle phobia, anxiety, autism or other developmental problems, sedation can be considered.

FITS Clinic currently assists children, teenagers and young adults with their procedures under sedation service.

Any procedures will be performed by a team of highly experienced paediatricians and nurses, who are trained in immunisation and sedation. They perform these services across both the public and private health sectors in Victoria.

An initial telehealth or face-to-face consult with a FITS doctor will be arranged to explain the sedation and procedure process, as well as to discuss immunisations or blood tests that are required. This appointment can be face-to-face or by telehealth, and is bulk-billed. 

The sedation procedure (immunisation and/or blood tests) will be performed as part of a day admission to the Cabrini Paediatrics ward. 

There is a flat fee out-of-pocket cost for the sedation procedure, regardless of the time/duration required. 

There may be an out-of-pocket cost (charged by Cabrini Health) for the hospital admission – some private health funds may cover this gap. 

There may also be additional costs for specific vaccines (eg. travel vaccinations). 

No. Sedation means your child will be sleepy or “groggy” during the procedure, but will not be connected to an anaesthetic breathing machine. 

There are a number of sedation options used in our clinic including Nitrous Oxide, Midazolam and Clonidine. The type of sedation will be dependent on the patient and this will be discussed with you at the initial consultation. 

Yes. Patients will be required to fast for at least 2 hours prior to the procedure. 

Depending on the type of sedation, it may take a few hours until the effect wears off. Patients remain on the paediatric ward until they are safe for discharge. 

Parents will be able to stay with their child during the entire procedure. 

After the procedure, certain sedatives may cause your child to feel drowsy. This is normal, and your child will be carefully monitored until they have fully recovered. It’s important to note that all medications carry some risk of side effects, which will be explained to you by your child’s doctor. Prior to administering sedatives, it is important to inform the medical team if your child has experienced any side effects from medications in the past. 

After the procedure, certain sedatives may cause your child to feel drowsy. This is normal, and your child will be carefully monitored until they have fully recovered. It’s important to note that all medications carry some risk of side effects, which will be explained to you by your child’s doctor. Prior to administering any sedatives, it is important to inform the medical team if your child has experienced any side effects from medications in the past. 

For more information on Immunisation Under Sedation, we recommend the following resources:

• Melbourne Vaccine Education Centre –  Needle phobia
• The Royal Children’s Hospital – Vaccination and needle phobia