Exam 21: Fundamentals for the Administration of N2O-Oxygen Sedation

Which of the following patient reactions indicate that a patient is not maintained at an appropriate level of relative analgesia?

Which of these symptoms is a possible sign of over-sedation?

What is the approximate constant pressure of a N₂O tank until all the liquid has evaporated?

Which of the following describes an advantage of N₂O over opioids?

Pre-sedation preparation includes confirming the proper function of the scavenging system by delivering 45% N₂O according to the manufacturer's instructions.

The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) set the maximum exposure limit for N₂O concentration to 25 ppm for dental personnel.

What is the recommended liter flow rate of oxygen prior to the induction of N₂O?

During minimal sedation patients are able to independently and continuously maintain airways; however, they frequently respond slowly to tactile stimulation and verbal commands.

The benefits of N₂O-O₂ sedation include easy titration of gases, rapid onset of sedation, and short recovery time should overdose occur.

Patient mouth breathing not only increases the amount of N₂O that is available for sedation but also allows N₂O to be exhaled into the environment.

What color is a N₂O tank in the United States?

Which of the following best explains the analgesic effect of N₂O-O₂ sedation?

Which of the following is not included in the pre-sedation preparation?

The pre-induction of sedation begins with establishing tidal volume of 100% oxygen for two minutes.

Which component of a N₂O-O₂ delivery system reduces gas pressures from tanks before delivery into tubing and pipes?

A 31-year-old female presented to the emergency room with a 4-month history of imbalance, limb weakness, and numbness and tingling from her toes to her waist as well as in the hands. She desired immediate medical attention after awakening with complete numbness from the chest to the toes. Physical examination showed decreased pinprick and light touch response from her waist to her toes as well as to her hands. Vibration sensation was also diminished in the feet and hands. Motor examination demonstrated generally decreased strength in all extremities. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed no abnormalities although the posterior spinal columns demonstrated increased signal. Standard lab values were normal. The patient did not immediately disclose N₂O abuse; however, prior to additional testing the patient admitted to regularly abusing N₂O via a N₂O machine. Over the last 2 years, she admitted to using N₂O for 1-2 hour sessions several times a week. -Explain the likely cause of the symptoms experienced by this individual.

What does the reservoir bag monitor?

Which of these symptoms is not a sign of over-sedation?

Average adult tidal volume is 500 mL based on an average of 6-7 liters/minute.

The specific gravity of N₂O is 1.53 and its molecular weight is 44, making it heavier than both air and oxygen.