Medical Gases Week 2

What is the primary use of therapeutic gases?

To relieve symptoms and improve oxygenation of patients with hypoxemia.

What type of gas is Nitrous Oxide (N2O)?

An anesthetic gas combined with oxygen to provide anesthesia during surgery.

What do nonflammable gases do?

They do not burn but may support combustion.

List two characteristics of oxygen.

Colorless, odorless, supports combustion, and not very soluble in water.

What method is most commonly used for oxygen production?

Fractional distillation of atmospheric air.

How is helium delivered in medical settings?

Helium must be delivered with at least 20% O2.

What are the two methods for oxygen production mentioned in the notes?

Fractional distillation and physical separation.

What is Heliox and what is its composition for severe asthma treatment?

A mixture of helium and oxygen, typically 80% He and 20% O2 or 70% He and 30% O2.

What is the function of nitric oxide (NO) in medical treatment?

It improves blood flow to alveoli, relaxes smooth muscles, and improves oxygen transport.

What color represents oxygen cylinders?

Green.

What is the density of air mentioned in the notes?

1.29 g/L.

What is the pressure measurement that indicates a full gas cylinder?

2200 psig.

What is the purpose of zone valves in a gas distribution system?

To terminate O2 delivery in case of fire and allow maintenance of one section without affecting the entire system.

What is the purpose of a regulator when attached to a flow meter?

To reduce the high pressure from the gas cylinder to a working pressure.

What safety systems are used for gas connections?

American Standard Safety System (ASSS), Pin Index Safety System (PISS), and Diameter Index Safety System (DISS).

What is the measurement to monitor remaining contents in a gas-filled cylinder?

Reading the pressure gauge.

What happens when a flow meter is attached to a reducing valve?

It is called a regulator.

What is a non-rebreather mask used for?

To deliver high flow oxygen concentrations.

What must be done before attaching a regulator to a cylinder?

Crack the cylinder valve slightly to remove dust.

What is the flow factor for Heliox with an 80/20 mix?

1.8 times the flow rate.

What is the main characteristic of carbon dioxide?

It is colorless, odorless, heavier than air, and does not support combustion.

How must compressed air be supplied in medical settings?

In yellow colored cylinders.

What is the significance of the cylinder markings?

They provide vital information such as gas type and purity.