Nitrogen narcosis
Revision as of 00:02, 11 March 2015 by Rossdonaldson1 (talk | contribs) (Created page with "==Background== *A reversible alteration in consciousness that occurs while diving at depth *Caused by the anesthetic effect of nitrogen at high pressure *Does not usually beco...")
Background
- A reversible alteration in consciousness that occurs while diving at depth
- Caused by the anesthetic effect of nitrogen at high pressure
- Does not usually become noticeable at depths less than 30 meters (100 ft), unless breathing non-standard air mixtures
- May cause scuba diving accidents at depth or in a hyperbaric chamber, but stops once the patient is at normal pressure
Clinical Features
- Produces a state similar alcohol intoxication (or nitrous oxide inhalation), only while at depth
Differential Diagnosis
Workup
- Clinical diagnosis
Management
- Ascent