US Medical Term · procedures
Sedation
Sedación
In 9 languages
| Language | Term |
|---|---|
| English | Sedation |
| Spanish (Español) | Sedación |
| Chinese (中文) | 鎮靜 |
| Korean (한국어) | 진정 |
| Vietnamese (Tiếng Việt) | Gây mê nhẹ / an thần |
| Filipino (Tagalog) | Sedation |
| Portuguese (Português) | Sedação |
| Thai (ภาษาไทย) | การระงับความรู้สึกด้วยยา |
| Japanese (日本語) | 鎮静 |
What it means
Sedation is the use of medication to help a patient relax, feel drowsy, or sleep lightly during a medical procedure without full general anesthesia. It ranges from minimal sedation, where patients are relaxed but fully awake, to moderate or deep sedation, where they may not remember the procedure afterward. It is commonly used for colonoscopies, endoscopies, dental procedures, biopsies, and minor surgeries. Medications such as midazolam, propofol, or fentanyl are used depending on the level needed. A clinician monitors breathing and vital signs throughout. You will need someone to drive you home after moderate or deep sedation. Grogginess and mild confusion are common immediately after sedation and typically resolve within a few hours.
How to say it
Sentences a patient might use with a doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or insurer:
Will I be given sedation during the colonoscopy so I do not feel pain or remember the procedure?
¿Me darán sedación durante la colonoscopia para que no sienta dolor ni recuerde el procedimiento?
What is the difference between sedation and general anesthesia?
¿Cuál es la diferencia entre la sedación y la anestesia general?
Can I drive home after receiving sedation for my procedure?
¿Puedo manejar a casa después de recibir sedación para mi procedimiento?
Where you'll see it
Related terms
Sources
Last reviewed: September 2026