Introduction[edit | edit source]A Pulse Oximeter is a handheld clip device used to measure one's oxygen saturation. Pulse Oximetry is the process of using the device to measure the oxygen saturation. [1]It helps indicate how well oxygen is being sent to parts of your body away from your heart, like the periphery [1] [2] Show
Due to its portability, it can easily be used at rest, and can also be used during exercise. Pulse oximeters can be used in critical care settings, like emergency rooms and hospitals, used to monitor patients before, during, and/or after rehabilitation exercise therapy, or can be used in the home setting. [1] Usage[edit | edit source]The pulse oximeter can be used to monitor oxygen saturation in the blood, in a variety of conditions. Some of these conditions include: [1][2]
The Device[edit | edit source]The pulse oximeter is a gentle clamp, which provide two digital readings: your heart rate, and oxygen saturation. [3]A picture of this device can be seen at the top of this page. It is placed around the fingertip, and the outputs are displayed within seconds. The device consists of a cold light source which shines a light through the fingertip. The device analyzes the light that is passing through the fingertip, and will determine the percentage of oxygen in the red blood cell. [3] This is done by measuring changes in light absorption between oxygenated and deoxygenated blood, [1]at two different wavelengths. The ratio of these is calculated and compared to measurements of arterial oxygen saturation to achieve the pulse oximeter's measurement of arterial saturation. [4] This is a non-invasive device, and does not involve any pain discomfort to administer. [3] This can be seen in the picture of the device, on the right. Procedure[edit | edit source]The device can be used on the fingers, ears, nose, or toes [3], but is generally used on the finger.
What the outputs mean[edit | edit source]Normal oxygen saturation (SpO2) levels for healthy individuals should be between 95% - 100%. [5] SpO2 values below 95% (90.1%-94.9%) are considered to be abnormal, and caution should be taken at these values. [6] Patients with an SpO2 reading of less than 90% are said to be hypoxemic. [4] Patients with an SpO2 reading of less than 85%would be severely hypoxemic. These patients would most likely need an external oxygen supply. [4] Note that oxygen saturation levels can be slightly lower for individuals at higher altitudes. [1] This is an oxygen saturation curve. Note that at the very top (95%-100%) the partial pressure of oxygen has plateaued, and is the highest. It is also seen that below 80%, the partial pressure rapidly or exponentially decreases. Limitations and Risks[edit | edit source]There are many factors which may cause an inaccurate or unreliable reading. Such factors may include:
These factors may result in an unintended low oxygen saturation measurement. It is also good to note that the accuracy of the device is the lowest when SpO2 values are below 80%. [5] There are no risks or dangers of having the device administered. [3] If and when someone is measuring their oxygen saturation at home using a pulse oximeter, attention should be given to the following signs or symptoms: [5]
Here is a detailed video explaining the pulse oximeter: [7] Interesting fact: There has been an increased usage of pulse oximeters as a result of Covid-19. Patients with (or suspected symptoms of) covis-19, who are using a pulse oximeter, should pay attention to all signs and symptoms when judging the accuracy and reliability of the device. [5] Here is another video, from the UK, about Pule Oximeters, with respect to Covid-19: [8] References[edit | edit source]
Which of the following is a risk factor for decreased oxygen saturation level in a patient?Which of the following is a risk factor for decreased oxygen saturation level in a patient? CORRECT. Chest wall injury is a risk factor for decreased oxygen saturation level in a patient.
Which assessment findings of the respiratory system is considered normal?The normal range of a respiratory rate for an adult is 12-20 breaths per minute at rest, and the normal range for oxygen saturation of the blood is 94–98% (SpO₂) Bradypnea is less than 12 breaths per minute, and tachypnea is greater than 20 breaths per minute.
Which conditions may be associated with decreased lung compliance quizlet?Decreased compliance occurs with conditions that increase fluid in the lungs, including pulmonary edema, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), pneumonia, pulmonary fibrosis, sarcoidosis, and pleural effusion.
Which condition may cause diaphragm paralysis and need to be mechanically ventilated?Damage to a phrenic nerve can lead to a paralyzed diaphragm. You may experience shortness of breath and sleep problems. People who have severe damage to their phrenic nerve may need a mechanical ventilator to breathe.
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