1. Know the Signs of Overdose
Nitrous oxide (also known as laughing gas) is commonly used as an anesthetic in dentists' office, where it can safely carry more powerful anesthesia into the body. It's mixed with air to ensure that it remains safe. Car enthusiasts also use it as a propellant because it increases the amount of oxygen that the engine can burn. Poisoning usually occurs when people use it as recreational drug--inhaling it to achieve feelings of euphoria and mild hallucinations. Signs of overdose include an irregular heartbeat, headaches, dizziness and feelings of nausea. Recreational users may use a balloon or a plastic bag to inhale it. Whipped cream canisters use nitrous oxide as well and can be manipulated to deliver the gas directly. These kinds of objects in the victim's vicinity may be signs of nitrous oxide use.
2. Get the Victim Away From the Nitrous Oxide
Death from nitrous oxide usually occurs from hypoxia, which is a lack of oxygen in the body. The gas is usually compressed, which means that it expands in the lungs, displacing oxygen and lingering for a significant length of time. It may take several hours for nitrous oxide to leave the body after it is inhaled, as it slowly migrates into the digestive system and sinus cavities. The recreational effects usually only last about a minute or so, which means most users will inhale it repeatedly in a short period of time. Remove the victim from the nitrous oxide and get him into fresh air. If hospitalization is required, use an oxygen tent and keep the victim in an oxygen-rich environment. This will reduce the risk of hypoxia and ensure that the victim has enough air to breathe.
3. Keep Blood Pressure Strong and Breathing Steady
Regular respiration and steady flow of the blood supply will gradually displace nitrous oxide in the body while ensuring that every system gets enough oxygen. Keep the breathing passages clear and periodically check the victim's heart and pulse rate to make sure no problems develop. In a hospital setting, the victim may need to be on a respirator, though this is usually only necessary in acute cases.
