Low-voltage equipment in contact with patients must operate on _____.

Low-voltage equipment in contact with patients is subject to strict safety standards to minimize the risk of electric shock and injury. Operating at 10V or less is generally considered safe for patient contact because it significantly reduces the risk of electric shock. The lower the voltage, the less likely it is to cause harm to human tissues, particularly when dealing with vulnerable populations such as patients who may already be in compromised health.

In medical settings, adhering to the 10V standard helps ensure compliance with safety regulations and guidelines set by organizations such as the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) and various national healthcare regulations. These standards are put in place to protect both patients and medical personnel, and they emphasize the importance of using equipment that operates at low voltages to enhance safety during treatments and procedures.

Higher voltages, while not specifically detailed in the context of the incorrect choices, would inherently increase the risk of significant injury in the event of accidental contact. Thus, operating at 10V or less establishes a clear margin of safety that is appropriate for medical applications, ensuring that low-voltage medical devices function effectively without compromising patient safety.