How can diffusion hypoxia be prevented after nitrous oxide administration?

Diffusion hypoxia occurs when nitrous oxide is rapidly eliminated from the body after the cessation of its administration. During this process, nitrous oxide diffuses out of the bloodstream into the lungs and may dilute the oxygen concentration in the alveoli, potentially leading to hypoxia if no other measures are taken.

To prevent diffusion hypoxia, administering 100% oxygen for around 5 minutes is effective because it helps to elevate the concentration of oxygen in the alveoli. This ensures that sufficient oxygen is available for the patient during the transient period when nitrous oxide is leaving the body. By doing so, the potential for hypoxia is mitigated, and the patient receives adequate oxygenation, thereby enhancing safety and comfort following anesthesia.

The other choices do not effectively address the prevention of diffusion hypoxia. For instance, administering plain air does not provide the necessary increase in oxygen concentration needed to combat the dilution effects from nitrous oxide. Increasing tidal volume does not specifically target the issue of nitrous oxide diffusion; it may not ensure sufficient oxygen delivery either. Shortening the duration of anesthesia may help reduce overall exposure to nitrous oxide, but it does not directly address the risk of diffusion hypoxia that can arise immediately after nitrous oxide is discontinued. Thus,