Nitrous Oxide

What is nitrous oxide?

Nitrous oxide is a very quick-acting gas that the patient breathes through a mask to help decrease anxiety and discomfort. You may have heard of it being called "laughing gas". It is a very safe medication with small risks. 

How will the patient receive the nitrous oxide?

The patient will inhale the medication through a mask. Special "flavors" can be picked out by the patient to smell on the mask and make the experience more enjoyable. Younger children may resist the placement of the mask so the nurse or doctor may have to help hold the mask in place. The nitrous oxide is given throughout the procedure and once the procedure is completed, the nitrous will be stopped and the patient will receive 100% oxygen for 3-5 minutes. 

How will this make the patient feel?

Most patients feel relaxed, giddy, or sleepy when receiving nitrous oxide. It causes a mild sedation. The patient will likely feel more comfortable throughout the procedure as a result of the nitrous oxide effects. Everyone is different, though, and nitrous oxide does not work for everyone. 

What are the risks of nitrous oxide?

There are no known long-term side effects, but patients may have nausea, vomiting, headaches, or feel strange during and for a short time after the nitrous oxide. A doctor or nurse will monitor the patient throughout the procedure and until he/she feels back to normal. This usually just takes a few minutes.

What should I expect after the procedure?

After the nitrous oxide is turned off, the effects quickly fade. Most patients comfortably return to normal, but sometimes may be disoriented or irritable for a short time after the procedure. A doctor or nurse will monitor the patient until he/she is back to normal. The patient may return to normal activities after completion of the procedure and nitrous oxide.

What can be done to help the patient with the nitrous oxide sedation?

Patient support is welcome to stay in the room with the patient while he/she receives the nitrous oxide to provide comfort and reassurance. It helps if you remain calm and relaxed. Telling stories and talking calmly with the patient will help the patient remain relaxed. Having a familiar face is very important for the patient's experience. Please tell your nurse if you are/may be pregnant, because of a rare but possible risk of nitrous oxide to the baby. 

After I go home, when should I call my pediatrician?

Call your pediatrician if the patient vomits more than twice, develops a fever higher than 101, is extremely irritable or difficult to arouse, or shows signs of an allergic reaction like hives, rash, or wheezing. Call 911 if the patient has a lot of trouble breathing.