Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 25, 2026
Author Spotlight: Exploring Venous Waveforms for Non-Invasive Respiratory Monitoring in Pigs
Published on: March 8, 2024
Comparative Evaluation of Accuracy of Pulse Oximeters and Factors Affecting Their Performance in a Tertiary Intensive
Anupam Kumar Singh1, Malvinder Singh Sahi2, Bablesh Mahawar3
1Senior Resident, Department of Cardiology, NDMC Medical College Hindu Rao Hospital, New Delhi, India.
Introduction:
Pulse oximetry is a widely used tool, unfortunately there is a paucity of data investigating its accuracy in Intensive Care Units (ICU) and if they are able to meet mandated FDA criteria as claimed by them in critically ill patients.
Aim:
To assess bias, precision and accuracy of pulse oximeters used in ICU and factors affecting them.
Materials And Methods:
A prospective cohort study, including 129 patients admitted to the ICU of a tertiary referral centre. Pulse oximetry and blood gas were done simultaneously. Pulse oximetry was done using two pulse oximetres: Nonin and Philips. All physiological variables like haemoglobin, lactate, use of vasopressors and blood pressure were recorded. Bland Altman curves were constructed to determine bias and limits of agreement. Effect of physiological variables on bias and difference between performance characteristics of bias was determined using SPSS.
Results:
Pulse oximetry overestimated arterial oxygen saturation (SaO2) by 1.44%. There was negative correlation between bias and SaO2 (r=-0.32) and positive correlation with lactate (r=0.16). The Philips pulse oximeter had significant higher bias and variability than Nonin pulse oximeter. (2.49±2.99 versus 0.46±1.68, mean difference = 1.98, 95% C.I. = 1.53 - 2.43, p-value <0.001).
Conclusion:
Pulse oximetry overestimates SaO2. Bias tends to increase with rising lactate and hypoxia. There is heterogeneity in performance of various pulse oximetry devices in ICU.
More Related Videos
14:28Non-Invasive Monitoring of Microvascular Oxygenation and Reactive Hyperemia using Hybrid, Near-Infrared Diffuse Optical Spectroscopy for Critical Care
Published on: May 10, 2024
07:51Evaluation of Capnography Sampling Line Compatibility and Accuracy when Used with a Portable Capnography Monitor
Published on: September 29, 2020
Related Concept Videos
01:24Pulse Oximetry
Purpose
Average SpO2 values are greater than 95%. If the readings fall below 90%, it indicates that...
01:19Guidelines For Measuring Vital Signs
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
Ensuring accuracy in vital sign recordings while prioritizing patient comfort and minimizing anxiety is...
01:17Assessment of Diffusion and Perfusion
The Role of Diffusion in Respiration
Diffusion is the process by which molecules move from an area of higher concentration to an area of lower concentration. In the respiratory system, this...
01:19Respiratory Assessment: Purpose and Indications
Objectives and Importance:
The primary goal of respiratory assessment is to evaluate patients at early risk of clinical deterioration. Since respiratory distress often precedes other signs of declining health, breathing patterns and sounds become a...
01:20Assessment of Ventilation I: Respiratory Rate
A Ventilation assessment is critical for monitoring a patient's health status. Respiration, one of the most accessible vital signs, provides insights into the function of numerous body systems and can indicate serious health issues, such as brainstem injuries from head trauma.
Critical Guidelines for Assessing Ventilation: