SAAD Digest 

March 2025
Volume: 41
Issue: 1
DOI: 10.63507/QSRI1085

Title: Improving the awareness of carbon emissions from nitrous oxide use for patients receiving inhalation sedation

Author(s):  R. Lee, Z. Shehabi.

Abstract: 

Background
Nitrous oxide (N2O) with oxygen is a safe and effective conscious sedation drug. However, N2O is a potent greenhouse gas, 300 times more harmful than carbon dioxide. Despite a nationwide push to decommission N2O from NHS gas manifolds, there is limited data on its justified use in dentistry.

Aims
The project aimed to quantitatively record carbon emissions, time of N2O use, and evaluate success and justification. The secondary aim was to qualitatively assess N2O use, stored and to assess clinician's views of N2O use.

Method
This project collected quantitative data over 3 retrospective months (May– July 2023), and one prospective month (January 2024), after implementing changes in the Special Care and Paediatric department. Qualitative data were collected from clinicians on N2O storage and use along with feedback.

Results / discussion
The results highlight the consistent justification for using N2O for inhalation sedation, as well as its success rate in achieving effective sedation, both retrospectively and prospectively across both departments. Improved recording of N2O usage time was observed following procedural changes. Prospective data highlighted higher carbon emissions in the paediatric department. Storage spot checks revealed proper procedures, but labelling discrepancies. Clinicians demonstrated safe practice, unanimous support for increased environmental awareness, and strong opposition to decommissioning of N2O. Recommendations and emphasis on sustainable N2O practice and environmental awareness were highlighted.

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Articles from Digest 41(1)