Assessment of medical personnel exposure to nitrogen oxides during inhaled nitric oxide treatment of neonatal and pediatric patients.

OBJECTIVE

This study was an assessment of potential exposures of medical personnel to nitrogen oxides during simulated and actual inhaled nitric oxide treatment of newborn and pediatric patients.

DESIGN

Breathing zone exposures to nitric oxide (NO) and nitrogen dioxide (NO(2)) were monitored using data-logging personal dosimeters during simulated and actual administration of NO gas to patients in an intensive care setting. Sample. A total of 28 bedside nurses and 18 respiratory therapists were monitored during 6 different patient treatments.

ANALYSIS: The highest measured concentrations of NO and NO(2) in the personal breathing zones of the nurses and respiratory therapists were peak readings (<1 minute in duration) of 6.7 parts per million (ppm) NO and 3.1 ppm NO(2). Exposures averaged throughout 15 minutes and throughout the work shift were below the limit of detection (0.8-ppm NO and 0.5-ppm NO(2)).

CONCLUSION

Detectable exposures to NO and NO(2) were brief, infrequent, and well below Occupational Safety and Health Administration permissible exposure limits or any other exposure guideline, eg, American Conference of Governmental Hygienists Threshold Limit Values.