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- Title
Nitrous oxide tank cold burn to the forearm: a case study and discussion of the literature.
- Authors
Allen, Oliver; Keating, Muireann
- Abstract
Why you should read this article: • To learn about the history of nitrous oxide (N2O) as a recreational drug and as an analgesic and anaesthetic • To enhance your understanding of the adverse effects and risks of recreational N2O use • To refresh your knowledge of the pathophysiology and management of cold burn injuries. Nitrous oxide (N2O) has become one of the most popular recreational drugs in Europe. While N2O is often used in medical settings as an analgesic and anaesthetic agent, its recreational use was documented many years before its introduction into clinical practice. The desired effects from inhaling N2O for recreational purposes include rapid feelings of relaxation, calmness and euphoria, which can be accompanied by giddiness and laughter. There are various adverse effects associated with N2O use, including headache, nausea, vomiting, drowsiness and the development of permanent neurological damage. Furthermore, its use is associated with cold burns and road accidents. This article details the case of a patient who sustained an N2O tank burn to his forearm from recreational use. It also discusses the prevalence, legal status and adverse effects of N2O use as well as the pathophysiology and management of cold burn injuries.
- Subjects
FROSTBITE; SUBSTANCE abuse; ANTIMICROBIAL bandages; PHYSICAL therapy; NITROUS oxide; MENTAL health; SOCIAL workers; HEADACHE; FOAMED materials; HOSPITAL emergency services; HOSPITALS; SKIN; ANALGESICS; DRUG abuse; CHEMICAL burns; WOUND care; VOMITING; SURGICAL dressings; PLASTIC surgery; FOREARM; RELAXATION for health; LAUGHTER; NAUSEA
- Publication
Emergency Nurse, 2024, Vol 32, Issue 4, p22
- ISSN
1354-5752
- Publication type
Article
- DOI
10.7748/en.2024.e2191