What type of device is a stent classified as?

• A. A diagnostic tool
• B. A small tube used for medical purposes
• C. An instrument for sterilizing equipment
• D. A protective cover for surgical tools

Answer: (B)

A stent is classified as a small tube used for medical purposes, which is why this choice is correct. Stents are typically made from metal mesh or plastic and are used to support the walls of blood vessels or other tubular structures in the body. They help keep these passages open, ensuring proper blood flow or function after procedures like angioplasty, where arteries have been narrowed or blocked.

Understanding the purpose of a stent makes it clear why it fits within this classification—it directly addresses a medical problem by providing support to bodily structures. A diagnostic tool, an instrument for sterilizing equipment, or a protective cover for surgical tools do not accurately describe the function or characteristics of a stent, emphasizing the specificity of its design and application in medical care.