Nitric oxide: a positive poison.
In 1987 the demonstration that nitric oxide (NO) was formed in vascular endothelial cells opened up a vast area of research. Ten years ago NO was viewed primarily as a toxic gas related to air pollution. Today NO is recognised as a major endogenous mediator of multiple physiological processes. NO's vasodilatory properties and short half life has led to the use of inhaled NO as a selective pulmonary vasodilator. NO was first used in neonates with acute pulmonary hypertension. It is now being used in the treatment of critically ill adults with severe respiratory compromise. It is very likely that intensive care nursing staff will increasingly be asked to contribute to the maintenance and management of NO inhalation therapy.
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Boyle
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D000368:Aged; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009569:Nitric Oxide / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000502:physiology / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D011652:Pulmonary Circulation / Q000187:drug effects*; D012128:Respiratory Distress Syndrome / Q000188:drug therapy*
D009569:Nitric Oxide