What happens if the oxygen level in the anesthesia machine falls below a safe threshold?

When the oxygen level in the anesthesia machine falls below a safe threshold, the machine is designed to trigger an alarm as a safety feature, alerting the clinicians to the issue. Alongside the alarm, the anesthesia machine typically will cease gas delivery to prevent any risk associated with insufficient oxygen supply, which is crucial for patient safety during anesthesia. This automatic response helps ensure that caregivers are immediately aware of the potential risk, allowing them to take necessary actions to correct the problem before it can adversely affect the patient.

Other options suggest either a continued operation or a complete shutdown of the machine, which would not adequately safeguard the patient's oxygenation. The machine's design prioritizes both alarm signaling and safety measures to mitigate any risks associated with low oxygen levels.