Which gasses are used in hospitals for anaesthetics?

There are several gases used in hospitals for anaesthesia, including:

1. Nitrous Oxide (N2O): Also known as "laughing gas," nitrous oxide is a colourless, non-flammable gas with a slightly sweet odour. It has been used as an anaesthetic since the mid-1800s and is often used in combination with other anaesthetic agents. Nitrous oxide has a rapid onset and recovery time, making it suitable for short procedures such as dental work or childbirth.

2. Oxygen (O2): Oxygen is a vital gas that is used in anaesthesia to maintain adequate tissue oxygenation during surgical procedures. It is often mixed with other anaesthetic gases to provide the patient with a sufficient supply of oxygen while under anaesthesia.

3. Halothane: Halothane is a potent, inhaled general anaesthetic that was commonly used in the past but has largely been replaced by newer agents due to its potential for causing liver damage.

4. Sevoflurane: Sevoflurane is a commonly used inhaled anaesthetic agent. It is colourless and has a slightly pungent odour. Sevoflurane provides rapid induction and recovery and is less likely to cause nausea and vomiting compared to other anaesthetics.

5. Desflurane: Desflurane is a fast-acting, inhaled anaesthetic agent. It is particularly useful in cases where rapid recovery is desired, such as outpatient procedures.

6. Isoflurane: Isoflurane is another inhaled anaesthetic agent that is less commonly used due to its potential to cause respiratory depression and hypotension.

7. Xenon: Xenon is a noble gas that has anaesthetic properties. It is a colourless, odourless, and tasteless gas that is non-flammable and has a low solubility in blood. Xenon is primarily used in neurosurgical procedures due to its neuroprotective properties.

The specific choice of anaesthetic gases used in a particular case depends on several factors, including the patient's medical condition, the type of surgical procedure, and the desired level of anaesthesia. Anaesthesia is administered by trained medical professionals who carefully monitor the patient's vital signs and adjust the anaesthetic gases as needed to ensure safety and comfort throughout the procedure.