Entonox

Entonox

What is Entonox and What is it used for?

Entonox (gas and air) has been used for many years as a pain relieving gas mixture. It consists of two gases; 50% nitrous oxide and 50% oxygen. It is self-administered and gives you control over the actual timing of the pain relief. It is used to provide pain relief for short lasting painful procedures e.g. putting bones back into place e.g. relocation of dislocated joints.

Advantages of Entonox?

Entonox is strong short acting pain relief which is administered by yourself.
Entonox quickly leaves the body therefore leading to a short recovery time meaning you are able to go home soon after the procedure and there is no need for anyone to stay with you at home or accompany you.

When can I start using the Entonox?

Just before the procedure.

How do I use Entonox?

A mouth piece is connected to a demand valve and this is held in your hand.
Place the mouth piece between your lips and breathe in and out deeply for one or two minutes before the procedure begins to ensure that an effective amount of Entonox is in your body. If you continue to inhale Entonox for too long, you will become drowsy and the mask or Mouth piece will fall away as you relax and hence there is little risk of an overdose with Entonox when used correctly.

How soon does Entonox wear off?

As soon as you stop breathing in, normally within 1 minute.

Does Entonox have any side effects?

Light headedness, rapid breathing, tingling sensation of the fingers and dry mouth are common.

Less common side effects include problems with the ear due to increased pressure inside the ear, tiredness, bowel enlargement due to trapped gas. Rarely side effects with very prolonged use (hours) include interference with the way your body uses Vitamin B12, which may affect your blood cell count and effects on nerve function including sensations of numbness and weakness.

Patient Experience
We know that being admitted to hospital can be a difficult and unsettling time for you and your loved ones. If you have any questions or concerns, please do speak with a member of staff on the ward or in the relevant department who will do their best to answer your questions and reassure you.

Feedback
Feedback is really important and useful to us – it can tell us where we are working well and where improvements can be made. There are lots of ways you can share your experience with us including completing our Friends and Family Test – cards are available and can be posted on all wards, departments and clinics at our hospitals. We value your comments and feedback and thank you for taking the time to share this with us.

Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS)
If you have any concerns or questions about your care, we advise you to talk with the nurse in charge or the department manager in the first instance as they are best placed to answer any questions or resolve concerns quickly. If the relevant member of staff is unable to help resolve your concern, you can contact the PALS Team. We offer informal help, advice or support about any aspect of hospital services & experiences.

Our PALS team will liaise with the various departments in our hospitals on your behalf, if you feel unable to do so, to resolve your problems and where appropriate refer to outside help.

If you are still unhappy you can contact the Complaints Department, who can investigate your concerns. You can make a complaint orally, electronically or in writing and we can advise and guide you through the complaints procedure.

How to contact PALS:
Telephone Patient Services: 0300 123 1732 or via email at: wah-tr.PALS@nhs.net
Opening times:
The PALS telephone lines are open Monday to Friday from 8.30am to 4.00pm. Please be aware that you may need to leave a voicemail message, but we aim to return your call within one working day.
If you are unable to understand this leaflet, please communicate with a member of staff.

For additional medical advice, if your symptoms or condition worsens:
Contact your GP
NHS 111: Telephone 111
Get help with your symptoms, NHS111: https://111.nhs.uk/
Information to help you manage your health: www.nhs.uk
In an emergency telephone 999

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