Presbyterian Healthcare 
MRI Exam
MRI Exam with Sedation
| Patients who do not like small, tight places or who are in a great deal of pain may requre sedation for their MRI exam. |
Two types of sedation are offered:
- A mild sedative given orally.
- A sedative administered through an IV by an anesthetist and an anesthesiologist.
Sedated patients are carefully monitored throughout the exam.
Patients who are sedated with an IV should plan to stay for an additional hour following the exam. They are taken to a recovery area, where they are monitored until the time of release.
Arrival time
- You will need to arrive one hour early for anesthesia purposes.
What to expect after the test
- Expect to feel sleepy for the remainder of the day.
Additional instructions
- Do not drive or operate any dangerous machinery, including cars, for 24 hours following the exam.
- Do not drink any alcoholic beverages or take any medication containing alcohol for 24 hours following the exam.
- You may eat a light meal after the exam and resume your normal eating habits the following day.
If any of the following symptoms occur, notify your doctor:
- Drowsiness that does not subside within 24 hours.
- Irritability or difficulty sleeping.
