Color coding for oxygen cylinder is

Appeared in: RUHS, Jaipur, M.Sc Nursing Entrance Exam-2024

Explanation

Medical oxygen cylinders are universally identified by a black body and white top or shoulders.
This standardized color-coding system is a crucial safety feature to prevent the accidental administration of the wrong gas to a patient.
Nurses must be able to identify gas cylinders by color as a primary safety check before connecting them to any equipment or patient.

Option A: A completely black cylinder is the standard color for Nitrogen gas.
Option C: A light blue (specifically French blue) cylinder indicates Nitrous Oxide.
Option D: A gray cylinder is used for Carbon Dioxide (CO2).

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Identification of medical gas cylinders based on standardized color coding as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Correctly identifying gas cylinders is a fundamental nursing responsibility that directly impacts patient safety. Administering the wrong gas can lead to severe hypoxia, tissue damage, or death.
Nurses must always perform a dual check: verify the color code AND read the text label on the cylinder before administration. Never rely on color alone.
Oxygen is a medication and a fire hazard. Nurses are responsible for educating patients and visitors about fire safety precautions, such as prohibiting smoking and avoiding sparks near oxygen sources.

How to Approach the Question

This is a factual recall question that tests knowledge of a critical safety standard in healthcare.
First, identify the key terms in the question: 'Color coding' and 'oxygen cylinder'.
The question asks for a specific piece of information that is part of a standardized system.
Recall the standard color codes for common medical gases.
Compare the recalled information with the given options. The color for oxygen is black with white shoulders.
Select the option that matches this standard.

Concept Tested & Keywords

Concept Tested: Identification of medical gas cylinders based on standardized color coding.
Stem keywords: Color coding, oxygen cylinder
Lead-in keywords: is

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E6 Nursing Fundamentals Taylor p. 1120-1122

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