Final answer:
The statement is false; an 18 gauge needle has a larger diameter than a 30 gauge needle, as smaller numbers in the gauge system indicate larger diameters.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that a 30 gauge hypodermic needle is larger in diameter than an 18 gauge needle is false. In the gauge system used for needles, the smaller the number, the larger the diameter of the needle. Therefore, an 18 gauge needle has a larger diameter than a 30 gauge needle. This is important in the medical field where precise gauges are used for specific purposes, for example, administering injections or drawing blood. Choosing the correct gauge can affect the flow rate of fluids and patient comfort during procedures.