Which equipment failure could potentially cause anesthetic emergencies?

An empty oxygen tank can indeed lead to anesthetic emergencies during a procedure. Oxygen is a critical component in the delivery of anesthetic agents to maintain patient safety and ensure adequate respiration. If the oxygen tank is empty, the patient will not receive sufficient oxygen, which can result in hypoxia and potentially lead to serious complications, including cardiac arrest or prolonged recovery times.

In contrast, a properly assembled anesthetic machine is crucial for the safe delivery of anesthetic agents and would not contribute to an emergency if functioning correctly. A functional endotracheal tube ensures effective ventilation and airway security, which are essential during anesthesia. An effective pop-off valve is vital for preventing excessive pressure buildup in the anesthetic circuit, which further stabilizes the anesthetic delivery and patient safety. Each of these components plays a role in promoting a safe anesthetic environment, whereas an empty oxygen tank directly jeopardizes that safety.