OC30 - Fracture reduction with nitrous oxide at the children's emergency department shortens the length of stay and reduces the use of full anaesthesia in the operating department

Abstract

UNLABELLED: Theme: Accreditation and quality improvement. AIM: Dislocated fractures are common in the children's emergency department (ER). All forms of fracture reduction are very painful requiring nitrous oxide. The purpose is to shorten the length of stay in the hospital as well as sustain a high quality of care. METHODS: All nurses received theoretical and practical training in the use of nitrous oxide. Evaluations with the families were made by telephone. RESULT: A total of 40 enclosed fracture reductions were made at the ER, leading to a reduction of 33 patients in the operating department and the length of stay was shortened - this compared to the same time in 2014. No adverse event was reported and no patient felt any increase in pain during the treatment. All patients would repeat the procedure if necessary. CONCLUSION: The treatment has reduced the length of stay in the hospital without affecting the other patients in the ER or the quality of care.