Certified Healthcare Constructor (CHC) Practice Exam

What two types of medical gas are required in a typical med/surg patient room?

1. Vacuum and oxygen

2. Oxygen and nitrous oxide

3. Air and carbon dioxide

4. Helium and nitrogen

The correct answer is: Vacuum and oxygen

In a typical medical-surgical (med/surg) patient room, two crucial types of medical gases are required: vacuum and oxygen. Oxygen is essential for patient care, especially for those requiring supplementary respiratory support. It is vital for maintaining adequate oxygen levels in patients, particularly in healthcare settings where respiratory issues are common. The ability to administer oxygen on demand can be life-saving and is a standard practice in hospitals. The vacuum system is equally important as it is used for suctioning fluids and debris from patients. This is critical for maintaining a clear airway, especially in procedures and emergencies. In general, the vacuum assists in reducing the risk of aspiration and helps to keep the patient comfortable and safe during their stay. The other options include gases that do not fulfill the primary requirements for a med/surg patient room. Nitrous oxide is generally used for sedation and not routinely necessary in standard patient rooms. Air and carbon dioxide are not typical requirements either, as carbon dioxide is not used therapeutically in that setting, and while air is essential, it is not provided as a specialized medical gas in the same way oxygen is. Helium and nitrogen also do not meet the standard needs of a med/surg patient room, as they are not typically utilized in