Nitrous oxide

Question 1

What are indications for using N2O/O2 sedation?

Answer 1

1. managing fear/anxiety
2. medically compromised pt
3. managing gagging

Question 2

Why is nitrous so quick to start and stop anesthetic affects?

Answer 2

It’s just barely soluble, making it travel in blood but easily leave the blood as well

Question 3

What are advantages of nitrous?

Answer 3

1. rapid onset
2. 3-5 min peak clinical effect
3. depth of sedation
4. duration of action
5. short recovery
6. ability to titrate
7. few side effects

Question 4

Does nitrous cross the placenta in a pregnant patient?

Answer 4

Yes, and produces CNS depression in fetus (do in 2nd trimester)

Question 5

What are contraindications for nitrous?

Answer 5

1. compulsive personality
2. claustrophobic pt
3. behavior problems
4. severe personality disorders
5. RTI
6. COPD

Question 6

What causes the hangover effect (diffusion hypoxia)?

Answer 6

CO2 is expelled faster than normal, making N2O rush into lungs and lowering O2