Nitrous Oxide Review OSHA Focus: 4 CEs

Nitrous Oxide Review OSHA Focus 2024

Credit hours/CE 4

Published November 2020 | Reviewed January 2024 | Expires December 2026

Course Description
Patient anxiety has always been a major issue in dental offices. This course reviews guidelines for nitrous oxide use by dental practitioners and staff by which to manage patient anxiety and pain. Nitrous oxide, (N2O), when administered properly, is safe, effective and increases patient satisfaction during some dental procedures. After discussing nitrous oxide’s chemical and physical properties, this course emphasizes best clinical practices which support absolute patient safety and assures that clinicians minimize nitrous oxide exposure to themselves in the workplace. OSHA sets forth specific guidelines for clinical and workplace safety which will be discussed in detail.

Learning Objectives

• Identify indications and contraindications for nitrous oxide use in clinical dentistry
• Evaluate patients’ suitability and best clinical practices for nitrous oxide sedation
• Implement nitrous oxide workplace monitoring and safety per OSHA guidelines
• Identify signs and symptoms of exposure

Sources/Editors/Authors
MaryLou Austin, RDH, MS, MBA Health Science Editor
U.S. Department of Labor OSHA Division

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