Medical gas pipelines supplying an Indian operating theatre deliver oxygen, nitrous oxide, and medical air to the anaesthesia machine at which standard pressure?

• A 100 kPa
• B 200 kPa
• C 400 kPa ✓
• D 800 kPa

Explanation

Hospital pipeline systems deliver medical gases at a nominal pressure of 400 kPa (approximately 4 bar or 60 psi), which matches the input requirement of anaesthesia machines and ventilators. Non-interchangeable Schrader sockets and probes prevent wrong gas connection at the wall outlet. Cylinder pressures are far higher, around 13,700 kPa for oxygen, and are reduced by regulators before reaching the machine. Pressures of 100 or 200 kPa would be insufficient to drive ventilators reliably.

Reference: Miller's Anesthesia, 9th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.