What is a crash cart used for in healthcare?

A crash cart is specifically designed for emergency situations in healthcare settings, particularly to respond quickly to cardiac arrest or other life-threatening emergencies. It is equipped with essential medical supplies and equipment, such as defibrillators, airway management tools, intravenous (IV) supplies, medications for resuscitation, and other critical items that healthcare providers need to stabilize patients in urgent situations.

The functionality of the crash cart is crucial as every second counts during a cardiac arrest, and having immediate access to these vital resources can make a significant difference in patient outcomes. Regular checks and restocking ensure that the crash cart is always ready for use in emergencies.

The other options do not accurately describe the primary function of a crash cart. It is not meant for general storage of all disposable medical supplies, facilitating patient transport to surgery, or administering medications in routine care, which are task-specific for different equipment or areas in a healthcare facility.