What kind of gases can the compressed gas supply in an anesthetic machine include?

The inclusion of oxygen and nitrous oxide in the compressed gas supply of an anesthetic machine is essential because both gases play critical roles in veterinary anesthesia. Oxygen is vital for ensuring that the patient maintains adequate oxygenation during anesthesia, while nitrous oxide is commonly used as an anesthetic adjunct due to its analgesic properties and ability to enhance the effects of other anesthetics.

Oxygen and nitrous oxide are also utilized together to create a balanced anesthetic environment. Inhalation of nitrous oxide can help induce and maintain anesthesia, particularly in combination with other agents, making it a preferred choice in many veterinary settings.

In contrast, the other options lack the necessary components for effective anesthesia. Inert gases do not provide the needed physiological effects for maintaining anesthetic depth or supporting life, while carbon dioxide is not used for anesthesia but rather is a waste gas produced during metabolism. Additionally, air without additives would lack the specialized properties required for safe and effective anesthesia, such as the ability to maintain an adequate anesthetic plane.