Nitrous oxide analgesia for refractory pain in the terminally ill
M. T. Fosburg and R. K. Crone
Nitrous oxide analgesia was used in the management of the terminal
hospitalization of four adolescents and one child with disseminated cancer.
All patients had severe pain that was unresponsive to standard regimens of
narcotics and various narcotic analgesia-stimulant combinations. In each
case, the addition of nitrous oxide led to an obvious improvement in
symptoms of pain, anxiety, and agitation, while simultaneously improving
appetite, mood, and the capacity to communicate. There were no side effects
except those related to the discomfort of wearing a mask. Acceptance of the
procedure by patient, family, and staff was universal and enthusiastic. The
procedure is safe, easily administered, and noninvasive. Nitrous oxide can
be useful in managing terminal illness refractory to standard pain control
measures.
