Anesthesia Technician Practice Exam

At what pressure should piped gas be maintained in anesthesia systems?

1. 35-40 psig

2. 40-45 psig

3. 50-55 psig

4. 60-65 psig

The correct answer is: 50-55 psig

Piped gas systems used in anesthesia should typically maintain a pressure of around 50-55 psig (pounds per square inch gauge). This specific pressure range is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, it ensures an adequate supply of gases, such as oxygen, nitrous oxide, and medical air, to the anesthesia delivery system without the risk of backflow or insufficient flow rates, which could compromise patient safety. Maintaining pressure within this range helps ensure that the gas flow remains consistent and reliable during procedures. Secondly, too high of a pressure can pose dangers, including potential mechanical failures of the anesthesia machine or equipment, which could lead to system malfunctions during surgery. Conversely, too low of a pressure can result in inadequate delivery of gases, leading to hypoxia or inadequate anesthesia. Hence, 50-55 psig is established as the optimal pressure range to support safe and effective anesthesia practices, underlining the importance of regular monitoring and maintenance of piped gas systems in clinical settings.