[Utilization of an equimolar mixture of oxygen-nitrous oxide in a general pediatric ward].
We report our experience of the utilization of the 50% oxygen-nitrous oxide mixture (nitrous oxide 50%) in our general pediatric ward after one year of use.


METHODS
Between 1st April 1997 and 31st March 1998, children who had to undergo a painful procedure were proposed to inhale 50% nitrous oxide before the procedure. We evaluate pain, restlessness and adverse effects.


RESULTS
The procedures (127 of them) were carried out in 90 children (61 boys). They were aged from 5 months to 15 years (mean: 5.7 years; median: 4.1 years). Indications were: lumbar puncture (n = 45), burning dressing (n = 29), venous cannulation (n = 12), minor surgery (n = 27), and miscellaneous (n = 14). Inhalation time was between 2 to 70 min (mean: 14.4 min; median: 11 min). Pain was absent or low in 106 cases (83.4%). Restlessness was absent or low in 100 cases (78.8%). Averse events were observed 12 times, but they were always minor and quickly reversible.


CONCLUSIONS
Nitrous oxide (50%) can be used successfully in a general pediatric ward. Other studies are necessary to define the best conditions.
Vic
P
P
Service de pédiatrie, centre hospitalier de Cornouaille, Quimper, France.
Laguette
D
D
Blondin
G
G
Blayo
M
M
Thirion
S
S
Queinnec
C
C
Lew
J
J
Mehu
G
G
Broussine
L
L
D000293:Adolescent; D000769:Anesthesia, Inhalation / Q000009:adverse effects; D018685:Anesthetics, Inhalation; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D008297:Male; D009609:Nitrous Oxide; D010100:Oxygen / Q000008:administration & dosage; D010146:Pain / Q000517:prevention & control
D018685:Anesthetics, Inhalation; D009609:Nitrous Oxide; D010100:Oxygen