Nitrous oxide

Question 1

What is the trade name for nitrous oxide?

Answer 1

Entonox

Question 2

What is the drug classification of nitrous oxide?

Answer 2

Gaseous analgesic

Question 3

How is nitrous oxide supplied?

Answer 3

Compressed gas cylinder (50% nitrous oxide with 50% oxygen)

Question 4

Describe the MOA (pharmacodynamics) of nitrous oxide.

Answer 4

• CNS depressant with analgesic properties
• Weak anesthetic at these percentages
  SHIT DESCRIPTION, FIX THIS

Question 5

What are the indications for nitrous oxide administration?

Answer 5

• Musculoskeletal pain
• Transcutaneous pacing
• Burns
• Suspected ischemic chest pain (BLS)
• Pregnancy (only in active labor)

Question 6

What is the dose for nitrous oxide?

Answer 6

Adult/Pediatric-Self-administered until pain relief or patient drops mask

Question 7

What are the contraindications to nitrous oxide use?

Answer 7

• Unable to follow commands
• Altered LOC
• Significant COPD
• Any traumatic chest injury
• Decompression sickness (diving in last 48 hours)
• Pregnancy – except in active labor
• Any suspicion of pneumothorax, obstructed bowel (abd pain with distension)

Question 8

What is a known precaution for nitrous oxide use?

Answer 8

Pulmonary hypertension – cardiac depressant and pulmonary vasoconstrictor properties

Question 9

Can nitrous oxide cause nausea and vomiting?

Answer 9

YES. Everything does!! :p

Question 10

Can you use nitrous oxide in cold weather?

Answer 10

• Do not use outside if below -6c

- Do not use if frost on the tank

Question 11

How potent is nitrous oxide as an analgesic?

Answer 11

Nitrous oxide is such a potent analgesic that inhaling 20% nitrous oxide can produce pain relief equivalent
to that of 5 to 7 mg of morphine.

Question 12

What should you do with a nitrous oxide tank prior to administration?

Answer 12

Ensure to invert tank three times prior to use (to mix the gases).