What type of breathing does nitrous oxide/oxygen administration begin and end with?

Nitrous oxide/oxygen administration typically begins and ends with 100% oxygen. This practice is standard for ensuring patient safety and comfort throughout sedation procedures. Starting with 100% oxygen allows for the pre-oxygenation of the patient, helping to elevate oxygen levels in the blood and decrease the likelihood of hypoxia during induction.

At the end of the nitrous oxide/oxygen sedation, 100% oxygen is again administered to help flush the nitrous oxide out of the patient's system, effectively aiding in the rapid recovery from sedation. Providing pure oxygen at both the beginning and the end of the procedure is essential for maximizing patient safety and minimizing any potential respiratory complications. This practice supports the physiological transition back to normal breathing.

Other options, like a mixture of nitrous and oxygen or solely air, do not align with the safety protocols for nitrous oxide administration. While maintaining a continuous supply of oxygen is crucial during sedation, starting and concluding with pure oxygen is the accepted standard in dental practice.