Why should you never use a medical gas cylinder without a pressure regulator?

Using a medical gas cylinder without a pressure regulator is critical because it could lead to excessive pressure, which poses significant risks to both patients and equipment. Medical gases are stored under high pressure, and without a regulator to control the flow and reduce the pressure to a safe level, the gas could be released too forcefully. This excessive pressure can damage medical equipment, potentially causing dangerous malfunctions, and can also harm patients by delivering gas at unsafe levels or rates, which can lead to serious health complications.

In a clinical setting, the controlled delivery of gases, such as oxygen or nitrous oxide, is essential to ensure safety and effectiveness. The pressure regulator plays a vital role in ensuring that the gas is dispensed in a manner that aligns with medical standards and patient needs, thereby eliminating the risk of delivering high-pressure gas that could be life-threatening.