[Measuring pulse oximetry at the patient's bedside]
Josette Dall'ava1, Philippe Delmas, Lyne Cloutier
1L'Université Paris Descartes.
Revue De L'Infirmiere
|December 31, 2011
Abstract:
Pulse oximetry, or oxygen saturation, reflects the quantity of oxygen fixed to the haemoglobin. It is commonly measured in a non invasive way, with the aid of a digital sensor oximeter. The results can be distorted by a number of parameters, it is therefore necessary to eliminate the risk of errors and to check the results against clinical data.
Related Concept Videos
01:24Pulse Oximetry
Pulse oximetry, or SpO2, is a non-invasive method for continuously monitoring arterial oxygen saturation (SaO2). This procedure involves attaching a probe or sensor to the patient's fingertip, forehead, earlobe, or nose bridge. The sensor works by detecting changes in oxygen saturation levels through light signals generated by the oximeter and reflected by the pulsing blood under the probe.
Purpose
Average SpO2 values are greater than 95%. If the readings fall below 90%, it indicates that...
Purpose
Average SpO2 values are greater than 95%. If the readings fall below 90%, it indicates that...
01:19Guidelines For Measuring Vital Signs
Following these guidelines can help nurses accurately measure vital signs, assess changes in patient conditions, and provide timely treatment when necessary. Adhering closely to the guidelines ensures the accuracy and reliability of the results.
Before taking a patient's vital signs, a nurse would consider and assess the patient's comfort level and ensure appropriate equipment is available.
Before taking a patient's vital signs, a nurse would consider and assess the patient's comfort level and ensure appropriate equipment is available.
01:19Special considerations while measuring oxygen saturation
Assessing respiratory rate concurrently with pulse measurement is fundamental to patient care, providing valuable insights into the patient's respiratory function. The normal breathing rate for an adult usually falls within a normal range of 12 to 20 breaths per minute. Abnormal respiratory rates can signal underlying health conditions or the need for immediate intervention.
Ensuring accuracy in vital sign recordings while prioritizing patient comfort and minimizing anxiety is important.
Ensuring accuracy in vital sign recordings while prioritizing patient comfort and minimizing anxiety is important.
01:30Pulse rhythm
Pulse rhythm refers to the pattern of pulsations within specific intervals, offering valuable insights into the regularity or irregularity of the heart's beats as observed through the pattern of pulsation within specific intervals. A regular pulse exhibits a consistent heart rate with uniform waveforms and pulsation force, variations of which can be classified as normal, weak, or bounding.
Conversely, an irregular pulse pattern is termed dysrhythmia, stemming from disruptions in cardiac muscle...
Conversely, an irregular pulse pattern is termed dysrhythmia, stemming from disruptions in cardiac muscle...
01:13Special considerations while measuring pulse
Assessing a patient's pulse is a fundamental skill in healthcare, but certain situations require special attention:
01:11Assessment of radial pulse
Assessment of Radial Pulse
The radial pulse, located at the wrist, is often the preferred site for assessing peripheral pulse because of its accessibility and dependability. The process of determining the radial pulse involves several steps:
The radial pulse, located at the wrist, is often the preferred site for assessing peripheral pulse because of its accessibility and dependability. The process of determining the radial pulse involves several steps: