Nitrous oxide for labor analgesia
Audrey Hellams1, Taylor Sprague, Christina Saldanha
1At the time this article was written, Audrey Hellams, Taylor Sprague, and Christina Saldanha were students in the PA program at High Point (N.C.) University, and Mark Archambault was director of research and an associate professor at High Point University. Dr. Archambault is now an associate professor in Lynchburg (Va.) College's Doctor of Medical Sciences program. The authors have disclosed no potential conflicts of interest, financial or otherwise.
Abstract:
Inhaled nitrous oxide (N2O) has been used worldwide for over 100 years as labor analgesia but has not gained widespread use in the United States. Nitrous oxide provides a noninvasive option for laboring women. This article outlines its efficacy and safety as an analgesic compared with epidural and IV pain medications.
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