Sedation for paediatric auditory electrophysiology in South Africa

Background: The sedation of children in the medical and allied professional fields has been a topic of controversy and debate internationally. Limited information is available on the use of sedation for auditory electrophysiology testing in South Africa. Objectives: The aim of this study was to determine how sedation information is recorded in electrophysiology audiology reports where diagnostic electrophysiology testing was used, and to obtain baseline information on sedation procedures and medications used during diagnostic electrophysiology testing. Methods: Audiology reports of 169 children undergoing auditory electrophysiology testing were reviewed for sedation information. Conclusion: Sedation data is not clearly documented and the use of medical or anaesthetist monitoring during sedation is not routinely included in reports. Sedation medication is varied and does not always include medications listed as safe for use with the paediatric population. This places doubt on procedures and protocols as well as the safety mechanisms in place for auditory diagnostic testing of children in South Africa.