What color-coded cylinder represents medical oxygen in the United States?

• A. Red
• B. Blue
• C. Green
• D. Yellow

Answer: (C)

In the United States, the color-coded cylinder that represents medical oxygen is green. This standardization helps ensure safety and clarity in medical settings, allowing healthcare providers to quickly identify the contents of gas cylinders. When a green cylinder is seen, it signifies that it contains oxygen, which is critical in various medical applications, including respiratory support for patients with breathing difficulties.

The color coding of gas cylinders is not merely decorative; it plays a vital role in emergency situations and everyday clinical practice. The use of a consistent color, like green for oxygen, minimizes the risk of mistakes that could arise from misidentifying gases, which could be dangerous in a clinical environment. Understanding these color codes is essential for anyone working with medical gases, ensuring the correct gas is administered to patients when it's needed.