Abstract
Effective pain management during labor is a critical part of maternal care. It influences the mother’s physical and emotional experiences of childbirth. Epidural anesthesia and intravenous opioids are commonly used as analgesia in laboring mothers, but nitrous oxide (N₂O) has proven to be a safe, noninvasive alternative. It allows mothers to maintain mobility and consciousness while still reducing some pain perception. The purpose of this evidence-based practice project is to evaluate the effectiveness, safety, and satisfaction associated with N₂O use during active maternal labor. It reviews current literature on N₂O use during labor, focusing on maternal and neonatal safety, effectiveness of pain management, and patient satisfaction. Thirteen articles published between 2011 and 2024 were retrieved from CINAHL, PubMed, and Google Scholar. Through these studies, evidence showed that N₂O temporarily relieves pain and is generally safe for mothers and neonates. The most notable contraindication included maternal vitamin B12 deficiency. Based on the evidence, a policy for N₂O implementation at Sioux Center Health is recommended. Ensuring effective integration will include ongoing evaluation of staff adherence and patient satisfaction.
Included in
Nitrous Oxide Use in Labor
Effective pain management during labor is a critical part of maternal care. It influences the mother’s physical and emotional experiences of childbirth. Epidural anesthesia and intravenous opioids are commonly used as analgesia in laboring mothers, but nitrous oxide (N₂O) has proven to be a safe, noninvasive alternative. It allows mothers to maintain mobility and consciousness while still reducing some pain perception. The purpose of this evidence-based practice project is to evaluate the effectiveness, safety, and satisfaction associated with N₂O use during active maternal labor. It reviews current literature on N₂O use during labor, focusing on maternal and neonatal safety, effectiveness of pain management, and patient satisfaction. Thirteen articles published between 2011 and 2024 were retrieved from CINAHL, PubMed, and Google Scholar. Through these studies, evidence showed that N₂O temporarily relieves pain and is generally safe for mothers and neonates. The most notable contraindication included maternal vitamin B12 deficiency. Based on the evidence, a policy for N₂O implementation at Sioux Center Health is recommended. Ensuring effective integration will include ongoing evaluation of staff adherence and patient satisfaction.