What is the primary function of a flow restrictor in a medical gas system?

In a medical gas system, the primary function of a flow restrictor is to deliver specific flow at constant pressure. This component is designed to ensure that a predetermined volume of gas is released steadily, allowing for controlled dosing and reducing the risk of delivering too much or too little gas to a patient.

By maintaining a constant flow rate regardless of pressure fluctuations in the system, a flow restrictor ensures that medical professionals can accurately administer gas for therapeutic or diagnostic purposes, such as oxygen therapy or anesthesia. This consistent delivery is vital for patient safety and effective treatment, as it helps maintain stable respiratory conditions.

Other options, while related to gas delivery, do not align with the primary role of a flow restrictor. For instance, adjustable flow for resuscitation would imply variability in flow rates, which is not the primary purpose of a flow restrictor. Measuring gas flow accurately is typically the role of flow meters, and safely storing excess gas pertains to storage systems rather than the function of a flow restrictor.