Acute pains are the worst. They can happen anytime and can be difficult to manage. But do you know there is a simple solution for it? Penthrox, a green whistle-shaped inhaler, can help you manage acute pain quickly and effectively. Pre-hospital training is important before using Penthrox, as it must be used correctly to get the best result.
No one is allowed to use Penthrox without specialist training because it is a prescription-only medicine. TrueMedic is a leading training provider in the United Kingdom for learning to use Penthrox safely and effectively.
Our training course will provide you with the necessary knowledge and skills for administering Penthrox and other related techniques. Let’s look at what Penthrox is and how to use it correctly.
What Is Penthrox?
Penthrox is an innovative product that every advanced first aid kit should have. It’s a medical-grade “green whistle” that gives trauma victims the quick relief they need from pain and shock until help arrives.
Penthrox has been developed by Anaesthesiologists and Emergency Physicians, who know what it’s like to feel helpless in the face of an injury. The active ingredient in Penthrox is Methoxyflurane [1], which provides quick relief from pain and shock. It is safe and effective in treating acute and chronic pain and trauma-related shock. The role of Methoxyflurane is to make the patient more relaxed and less sensitive to pain, allowing them to feel more comfortable.
Conditions Where Penthrox Can Be Used
Penthrox is a pre-hospital analgesic often used to treat pain in the pre-hospital setting. It is an inhaled analgesic indicated for Emergency relief of moderate to severe pain in conscious adult patients with trauma and associated pain. It has been used by pre-hospital professionals such as ambulance crews and paramedics in some countries for decades. Still, due to its specific pharmacological action, it can be safely used in other conditions too.
Whether you’re in troupes receiving pre-hospital training or an intrepid explorer needing some relief away from home, Penthrox could help treat pain in various conditions, including fractures, burns, and dislocations.
With the kind of pre-hospital treatment that Penthrox offers, medical professionals can rest easy knowing that their patients will be provided with effective pain relief and care when needed.
For the past 42 years, Penthrox has been used to treat various medical conditions, from moderate injuries to major trauma [2]. However, Penthrox should not be used in children and adolescents under 18. Following are some common conditions where Penthrox can be used:
- Head Injuries
- General Trauma
- Burns & Scalds
- Dental Pain
- Back Aches & Sprains
- Strains & Cuts
- Fractures
How to Use Penthrox?
Penthrox is an effective pain relief solution that can be administered with just a few quick steps. It’s the perfect choice for fast-acting, long-lasting relief from acute and chronic pain.
If used correctly according to guidance from a clinician, Penthrox can provide significant benefits with minimal side effects such as rash or sensitisation around the injection site, which are usually mild and resolve quickly without further treatment intervention.
Here are the steps to follow for administering Penthrox [3]:
1. Securely Place the Activated Carbon (AC) Chamber inside the Dilutor Hole
To ensure that the Penthrox is ready to be used, the activated carbon chamber must first be securely placed inside the dilutor hole. Once this has been done correctly and the AC chamber is in place, it’s time to start administering the medication.
2. Remove The Cap By Hand
Removing the cap by hand is surprisingly tricky, so feel free if you struggle with it. To ensure you do it safely and correctly, start by positioning your thumb and forefinger on either side of the red stopper underneath the cap.
Squeeze as you twist to remove the cap; this will take some strength. Be extra careful in making sure not to spill any medication inside.
3. Tilt The Inhaler And Pour It Into The AC Chamber
After removing the cap, tilt the inhaler, so the lip points towards you. Now pour it into the Activated Carbon chamber until it’s filled to a volume of 10mL or more. Be sure to fill it only a little as it can cause an overdosage and potential side effects. The tilt angle should be 45° so that the lip points downward.
4. Place Wrist Loop Over Patient’s Wrist
Once the inhaler has been filled, place the wrist loop over the patient’s wrist and tighten it to ensure that it fits snugly. This will help prevent accidental removal of the inhaler while in use. Check with a doctor if you are still determining how tight or loose the loop should be.
5. Replace The Cap After Use
When you are finished using the inhaler, replace the cap securely to ensure no medication is lost or spilled. After replacing the cap, remove and discard the AC chamber, as it has now been used up. If you don’t replace the cap, you may experience irritation when using the inhaler again.
Precautions To Take Before Using Penthrox
Penthrox should not be administered to those allergic or sensitive to its ingredients. Additionally, it should not be used if the patient has an altered level of consciousness due to any drugs or alcohol, is hemodynamically unstable, or suffer from clinically significant renal impairment. Those with cardiac conditions should also consult their doctor before using Penthrox.
Pre-hospital training is always recommended for the best results. If you are on the spot using Penthrox, please read the instruction manual before consulting with a medical professional.
How TrueMedic Training Course Can Help
TrueMedic offers a comprehensive training course on administering Penthrox, covering all the necessary steps to ensure proper usage and safety. Our course is suitable for healthcare professionals providing pre-hospital care and helps build skills and confidence when using this medication in the field.
Over the past few years, there has been a dramatic surge in the use of Methoxyflurane 99.9% (PENTHROX) for prehospital and emergency care. This powerful and effective pain reliever is becoming increasingly popular among healthcare professionals dealing with moderate or severe pain.
Recognizing the convenience and safety of this drug, more and more emergency services are beginning to administer it as a form of pain management for patients who have suffered trauma. This allows them to get immediate relief and an easy termination once the pain has been relieved.
TrueMedic provides the resources you need to acquire a certification that allows you to dispense this remarkable medication and positively impact patient care.
In just 3 hours, this short course will provide you with the skills and knowledge to safely and efficiently utilize PENTHROX. After completion, you will receive a PENTHROX e-certificate and be eligible to use this strong pain relief in practice.
The enrollment price for the TrueMedic Penthrox Certification Course is only £50.00, and the minimum age requirement is 18+ years of age.
Enrol today to take the first step towards becoming a Penthrox certified healthcare professional. Join us in making a difference and providing the best care possible for your patients. We look forward to welcoming you and allowing you to master Penthrox usage.
FAQs
1. How can I ensure that I am using Penthrox correctly?
The best way to ensure you properly administer Penthrox is to take the TrueMedic Certification Course. This course will provide detailed information on the proper steps and techniques to use this medication effectively. Also, consult your doctor or healthcare team if you have further questions or concerns.
2. Should I replace the cap after using Penthrox?
Yes, it would help if you always replace the cap securely after use to ensure no medication is lost or spilled. It is not recommended to leave the inhaler open after use, as this may irritate you when you need to use it again. Before using Penthrox, please ensure that all safety protocols are followed and that you have read the instruction manual.
3. Is there a minimum age requirement for taking the TrueMedic Certification Course?
Yes, the minimum age requirement is 18+ years of age. There is no maximum age requirement, and the course is suitable for all healthcare professionals providing pre-hospital care.
