What percentage of oxygen should a patient start on after nitrous oxide administration?

After the administration of nitrous oxide, patients should be placed on 100% oxygen to ensure their safety and comfort. Nitrous oxide is a potent sedative agent that can lead to a decreased level of consciousness and potential hypoxia if not managed properly. Providing 100% oxygen helps to rapidly replace any nitrogen or nitrous oxide in the patient's system, facilitating their recovery and maintaining adequate oxygenation as the effects of nitrous oxide wear off.

This practice not only delivers pure oxygen to the patient, ensuring that they receive the necessary oxygen for their body functions, but it also supports the elimination of nitrous oxide from their system at a faster rate. The goal is to minimize any potential side effects and enhance patient safety.

The other percentages listed would not provide the same level of safety and assurance as 100% oxygen. For example, administering anything less than 100% may not sufficiently replace nitrous oxide in the system, potentially leading to inadequate oxygen delivery to the patient’s tissues. Therefore, the standard of care is to always use 100% oxygen following nitrous oxide sedation.