Medical gases for hospitals

Gases for the hospital sector

Medical gases are essential for a wide range of clinical applications ranging from surgical procedures and anaesthesia to respiratory treatments and intensive care. These gases, which include oxygen, nitrous oxide, medical air and carbon dioxide, among others, are essential to maintain and stabilise the vital functions of patients in critical situations.

Given their importance, the handling of medical gases is subject to strict safety and quality protocols, and their administration is carried out by highly trained medical personnel.

Oxygen in hospitals

Oxygen is an essential element for life and plays a crucial role in modern medical care. In a hospital, the presence and availability of medical oxygen is paramount for the care of patients, especially those with breathing difficulties or in critical situations.

Medical oxygen in hospitals is usually stored in large cryogenic tanks, but can also be found in high-pressure cylinders or oxygen concentrators. These systems are connected to a distribution network that delivers oxygen to the areas of the hospital where it is needed, from emergency rooms and intensive care units to patient rooms and operating theatres.

Integration of medical gases in hospitals

Medical gases are an essential pillar of hospital healthcare, used in a variety of departments and for diverse medical applications. From anaesthesia in operating theatres to respiratory support in intensive care, their importance is critical. Their administration is highly regulated to ensure safety and efficacy in the treatment of patients. In the following, I describe how these gases are integrated in different departments and contexts within the hospital setting:

• Operating theatres: Gases such as nitrous oxide and medical air are essential for performing anaesthesia and keeping patients in a sedated state during surgical procedures.
• Intensive Care Units (ICUs): In these units, medical oxygen is vital for the life support and treatment of patients with severe respiratory diseases or multiple organ failure.
• Emergencies: Emergency services use oxygen and other medical gases to treat cases of shock, asphyxia, and other medical emergencies where rapid administration of these gases can be crucial to patient survival.
• Diagnosis and Medical Tests: Gases such as helium can be used in imaging studies or functional tests, such as spirometry, to assess lung function.