What is the primary characteristic of "Oxygen, Compressed USP"?

The primary characteristic of "Oxygen, Compressed USP" is that it is a compressed gas that meets purity standards for human use. This designation indicates that the oxygen has been processed to ensure it conforms to the stringent requirements set by the United States Pharmacopeia (USP), which governs the quality, purity, strength, and consistency of healthcare products. The purity standards are critical because oxygen is often administered to patients for therapeutic purposes, requiring the gas to be free from harmful contaminants or impurities that could adversely affect health.

The term "compressed" signifies that the oxygen is stored under high pressure, allowing for efficient transportation and storage in medical settings. It is essential for various medical applications, including anesthesia and respiratory support, contributing to patient care safely and effectively. Thus, understanding that this form of oxygen complies with high standards for human use is pivotal in its supervision and management within healthcare environments.