Guidelines for nitrous oxide administration
Dermatology Nitrous Oxide / Bites Nitrous Oxide--Summary of Basics



Method of Administration

- Concentration: Start with 100% 02, and then gradually give up to 30-50% N20 with 70-30% 02. Most require about 50% N20 for adequate analgesia.

- Maintain verbal contact with the patient. You can proceed with the painful procedure once the patient feels "floaty" or "tingly" (analgesia is usually achieved in about 2-3 minutes.

- When the painful procedure is over administer 100% 02 for 2-3 minutes (some authors claim 5-15 minutes) to prevent "diffusion hypoxia".