Intérêt, limites d'utilisation et tolérance du mélange équimolaire protoxyde d'azote-oxygène pour les actes douloureux en gériatrie

In geriatric units, alleviation of patient suffering is an omnipresent concern when performing painful procedures or delivering painful treatment. Nevertheless, classical analgesic treatment often presents disadvantages for patients with a variety of co-morbid conditions and taking a variety of medications. This study deals with a new method that is not yet widespread in geriatrics : namely, delivery of an equimolecular nitrous oxide/oxygen mixture during painful treatments. The aim of this study was to show the usefulness, limitations of use and extent of tolerance to this mixture delivered while administering painful treatments to the elderly regardless of their intellectual condition and current medication. This prospective study included 12 patients, nine of whom presented signs of dementia. The analgesic effect was measured using the ECPA scale. The technical implementation, tolerance and analgesic efficiency of nitrous oxide/oxygen mixture were considered satisfactory. Cognitive impairment should not constitute an inhibiting factor with regard to its use.