What type of flowmeter is most commonly used in hospitals?

The most commonly used flowmeter in hospitals is the Thorpe tube flowmeter. This type of flowmeter is favored due to its simplicity and effectiveness in measuring the flow of gases, particularly oxygen. The Thorpe tube is a vertical, tapered glass tube with a float inside that rises to a level corresponding to the gas flow rate. As gas flows through the tube, the float moves up or down based on the flow rate, allowing for an easy visual reading of the flow.

This design provides accurate flow measurements and is relatively easy to operate, making it ideal for various medical applications in hospital settings. Its robustness and reliability in providing precise flow rates are essential in clinical environments where oxygen therapy is frequently administered.

While other types of flowmeters are available, such as rotameters, electronic flowmeters, and bubble flowmeters, they are less commonly used in the hospital setting compared to Thorpe tube flowmeters. Each of these other types may have specific applications or advantages, but the Thorpe tube's combination of ease of use, accuracy, and familiarity among healthcare providers solidifies its status as the primary choice in hospitals.