Inhaled analgesic saves time and resources in emergency departments

A inhaled analgesic can save more than one hour per procedure in hospital emergency departments on average allowing more patients to be seen and potentially saving money for the NHS, a new study reveals. The non-opioid medicine methoxyflurane (Penthrox) is self-administered under the supervision of a person trained in its administration. Researchers from St Mary’s Hospital, in London, part of Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, found that 71 minutes on average were saved in treating appropriate emergency department (ED) patients, compared to usual pain-killing techniques, with the added benefit of saving up to 50% on the cost of treatment per patient