What is the minimum concentration of O2 that should be maintained?

Maintaining an adequate concentration of oxygen is crucial during sedation or anesthesia, particularly when using nitrous oxide. The correct answer indicates that a minimum of 50% oxygen concentration should be maintained to ensure patient safety.

This level is important because nitrous oxide, while providing sedation and analgesia, can displace oxygen in the lungs and reduce the amount of oxygen available for the body. Inadequate oxygen levels can lead to hypoxia, which can have serious consequences including loss of consciousness or impaired physiological function.

Providing at least 50% oxygen helps to ensure that the patient remains adequately oxygenated, even in the presence of nitrous oxide. This enhances safety by allowing for a buffer against potential respiratory depression or other effects of sedation. Therefore, ensuring that at least this concentration is present in the gas mixture is a fundamental principle in the administration of nitrous oxide.