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Prehospital analgesia with nitrous oxide/oxygen
Canadian Medical Association Journal
|October 15, 1981
Summary
Ambulance attendants can safely administer nitrous oxide/oxygen (N2O/O2) for effective prehospital pain relief. This pilot study found 69 of 72 patients experienced significant pain reduction with minimal side effects.
Area of Science:
- Emergency Medicine
- Anesthesiology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Severe pain is a common prehospital emergency.
- Effective and safe analgesia is crucial in the prehospital setting.
- Nitrous oxide/oxygen (N2O/O2) is a potential analgesic agent for field use.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the safety and efficacy of prehospital analgesia using 50% nitrous oxide and 50% oxygen.
- To assess the suitability of N2O/O2 administration by ambulance personnel.
Main Methods:
- A pilot study involving 72 patients with severe pain.
- Administration of 50% N2O/O2 via face mask under supervision.
- Evaluation of two delivery systems: Entonox and Nitronox.
Main Results:
- 69 out of 72 patients achieved worthwhile pain relief.
- No serious adverse events were reported.
- Observed side effects were consistent with known N2O actions, such as giddiness.
Conclusions:
- 50% nitrous oxide/oxygen (N2O/O2) is a safe and effective analgesic for prehospital use.
- Ambulance personnel can be trained to administer N2O/O2.
- N2O/O2 offers a viable option for managing severe pain in the field.