Nitrous Oxide and Dental Personnel Concerns: Contamination & Scavenging
Nitrous Oxide and Dental Personnel Concerns: Contamination & Scavenging is organized by Dentaltown, L.L.C.
Released: 4/28/2021
Expiration Date: 4/28/2024
Overview:
This course is specifically designed to mitigate any concerns dental staff may have when working in offices where nitrous oxide – oxygen inhalational sedation is provided. Perfect for every clinician, hygienist or team member who may be under the impression that the chronic environmental exposure to nitrous oxide could result in some type of fetotoxicity or teratogenicity in an expectant employee; this program debunks that myth.
This comprehensive review of animal studies, early non-clinical trials which led to the development of safer masks and scavenging systems and finally clinical trials which reinforce the wide margin of safety that this gas provides, this is a foundational course for all oral healthcare practitioners. As the late Dr. John Yageila is often quoted, “there has never been a death in a dental office, while dentistry is being done and nitrous oxide is the sole sedative being used.” We now know that this level of safety is not only imparted to our patients, many of whom may be pregnant, but definitely to our frontline workers who may be considering starting a family but are concerned about working in an office where nitrous oxide – oxygen inhalational sedation is provided.
Case studies will augment the delivery of key points and a problem-based learning approach is encouraged so that each participant’s questions are addressed. After all, if the oath we all took upon graduation was to, “First, do no harm,” then why would you not want to offer your patients and staff the best and safest treatment possible?
Educational Objectives:
Upon completion of this course, participants should be able to achieve the following:
• Discuss the challenges with some of the early animal studies investigating the safety of nitrous oxide
• Understand the clinical significance of a well-fitting nose-piece or mask
• Learn how to keep your office safe with a checklist from the ADA Advisory Panel on nitrous oxide safety
• Recognize the proposed biochemical pathway in which nitrous oxide could be associated with teratogenicity
• Appreciate the overall safety of nitrous oxide – oxygen inhalational sedation and how to counsel and advise staff on measuring and minimizing any potential occupational exposure