NFPA-99 Practice Exam

Which classes of medical gases is specifically noted for powering medical/surgical tools?

1. Category 1 support gases.

2. Category 2 support gases.

3. Category 3 support gases.

4. Non-support gases.

The correct answer is: Category 1 support gases.

Category 1 support gases are specifically designated for powering medical and surgical tools. This classification includes gases such as compressed air and nitrous oxide, which are critical for the operation of various medical devices and apparatus used in healthcare settings. These gases play a vital role in providing the necessary power for surgical instruments, ensuring they function efficiently and effectively during procedures. The emphasis on Category 1 support gases in the context of medical and surgical applications is due to their reliability and essential nature in clinical environments. Understanding the purpose and application of these gases is crucial for healthcare professionals because improper usage or selection of medical gases could lead to compromising the efficacy of medical procedures. Other categories of gases, such as non-support gases, typically serve different roles within medical settings and do not provide power to tools directly, focusing instead on therapeutic or ancillary functions.