Administration of Nitrous Oxide by Medical Assistants for Painful Procedures in Outpatient Pediatric Settings.

BACKGROUND

Managing pain and distress in children experiencing procedural pain is a priority in pediatric care. Nitrous oxide (pre-mixed formulation of 50% nitrous oxide to 50% oxygen) is widely used to alleviate anxiety or pain during care procedures in various medical domains. This pharmacological intervention is safe to administer to children. Administration by non-anesthesiologist personnel is widespread throughout the world, though it is almost exclusively performed by doctors and nurses. The purpose of this study is to describe the experience of nitrous oxide (N

METHODS

A retrospective study was conducted in a pediatric outpatient unit of a regional hospital, including medical and surgical consultations.

RESULTS

Nitrous oxide was administered by medical assistants to 324 children aged 3 to 19 years. No respiratory and/or cardiovascular problems were noted. Most patients were calm and relaxed.

DISCUSSION

The use of N

CONCLUSIONS

This study suggests that the use of nitrous oxide by trained medical assistants can be safe, feasible and effective within the specific context of this study.