Occupational exposure to nitrous oxide in operating room nurses

A large population of health care workers is potentially exposed to nitrous oxide which can cause decrease in mental performance, audiovisual ability, and reduced fertility, neurological, renal, and liver disease. Nitrous oxide exposure assessment in operating room has been not been done in Korean hospitals. To explore the nitrous oxide exposure level among nurses in operating room, area sample and personal sampling methods were used. Air samples were taken while nitrous oxide was in use for over six hours where the surgeon and nurses were present for operation. There was a significant difference by dealing with anesthesia, type of surgery involved, and room structure. The author concludes that a health hazard from excessive exposures to nitrous oxide exists in the operating room. It is recommended to minimize the hospital workers' exposure to the chemical agent. The authors also recommend that the ventilation system should be adjusted each time nitrous oxide is going to be used. Routine maintenance checks should be performed on all anesthetic and suction equipment.