Safety and Risk of Nitrous Dioxide during Labor Literature review

Safety and Risk of Nitrous Dioxide during Labor - Literature review Example Nitrous Oxide is a chemical compound with the formula N ­2O and is an oxide of Nitrogen. This gas is commonly referred to as ‘sweet air’ or ‘laughing gas.’ Inhaling it has a euphoric effect, and this was the motivation behind its use as an analgesia. Since the inception of N ­2 ­Ã‚ ­O analgesia use in the management of pain during labor, studies have been conducted to ascertain the various effects it has, other than the analgesic property.   In the United States, the reported use of N ­2O as a labor analgesia is a minimal 1%. This is the motivation for this review. It is an analysis of the factors that have led to the decreased, to almost nil use of N ­2O analgesia during labor. When used in high doses, N ­2O is a weak anesthetic but, in low doses, it is an analgesic. The low dose use of N ­2O is achieved by using it in 50/50 combination with oxygen gas. When the50% N ­2O is in Oxygen, the mixture is referred to as Entonox. Concerns that have been advanced are in relation to the effect that Entonox has on labor, and birth. Studies have also indicated that N ­2O analgesia during labor affects breastfeeding and the wellbeing of both mother and neonate. There are also possible occupational risks that this method presents to persons who care for mothers during labor. Reviews on the occupational risks and the safety of N ­2O labor analgesia have also been carried out. It is essential for a nurse to be well aware of the risks linked to this method in order to practice safety precaution. This knowledge also makes it possible for the nurse to provide the mother with proper care during labor. The use of N ­2O was recommended earlier, due to its low blood-gas solubility coefficient. The value of 0.47 is indicative of its ability to rapidly equilibrate with blood. When used during labor to manage pain, N ­2O is used intermittently, targeting the peak pain during contractions. The parturient can be trained on how to effectively time peak contraction pain. To attain the near-maximum effect of Entonox, approximately ten breaths are required. The intermittent use ensures that there is a minimal accumulation of N ­2O in blood during, and after use.