Under what condition may a dental hygienist administer nitrous oxide?

• A. They have received a nitrous oxide permit from the board.
• B. Under direct dentist supervision at all times.
• C. They may administer nitrous oxide without any permit.
• D. They can administer only in hospital settings.

Answer: (A)

Nitrous oxide administration is a regulated procedure that requires explicit regulatory authorization. A dental hygienist may administer nitrous oxide only after obtaining a nitrous oxide permit from the Louisiana Board of Dentistry. This permit is issued after completing the board-approved training and meeting ongoing competency requirements, and it ensures adherence to safety protocols, patient assessment, monitoring during administration, equipment standards, and proper record-keeping. Without the permit, administration isn’t permitted, and factors like supervision alone, lack of a permit, or setting limitations don’t change the legal requirement.