What feature ensures flowmeters in an anesthesia machine are safe to operate?

The feature that ensures flowmeters in an anesthesia machine are safe to operate is the inclusion of valve stops to prevent damage. Valve stops are critical because they limit the range of movement within the flowmeter, helping to avoid excessive flow or pressure that could lead to damage of the device or compromise patient safety. By preventing users from turning the knobs past a certain point, these stops enhance safety during the delivery of anesthetic gases and minimize the risk of accidental over-delivery, which can have serious consequences.

While other features such as auxiliary flowmeters, color coding, and digital displays do contribute to the overall functionality and usability of the anesthesia machine, they do not specifically address the safety and integrity of the flowmeters in the same way that valve stops do. Auxiliary flowmeters provide additional options for gas delivery, color coding aids in quick identification of gases, and digital displays offer clear readings, but none inherently prevent mechanical failure or misuse like valve stops. Thus, the presence of valve stops is paramount in maintaining the safe operation of the flowmeters.