What is the maximum leakage current allowed through each patient lead in the operating room equipment?

The maximum leakage current allowed through each patient lead in the operating room equipment is based on safety standards designed to protect patients from electrical shocks and potential injuries. The correct answer is 10 uA (0.01 mA), as this is generally accepted in accordance with specific medical electrical equipment safety standards, such as those from the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC).

This limit is established to ensure that any stray electrical current that might find its way to the patient through leads does not exceed a level that could cause harm, allowing for safe operation of equipment during medical procedures. Standards are crucial in maintaining patient safety, especially in environments where patients may already be vulnerable or under anesthesia.

The other options, while they represent current levels, exceed safety limits set by regulatory bodies concerned with patient safety. For example, higher limits such as 100 uA or 500 uA could pose a significant risk, especially in the sensitive context of surgery. Thus, adhering to the 10 uA standard helps mitigate the risk of electric shock while maintaining effective monitoring capabilities during surgical procedures.