Do clinicians know how to use pulse oximetry? A scoping review

The aim of this study was to scope published evidence on clinicians' knowledge of pulse oximetry.

Vital signs' assessment is critical for the early detection of acute clinical deterioration. Oxygen saturation, measured using a pulse oximeter, is one of these signs. To use a pulse oximeter correctly, clinicians must have a thorough understanding of the principles underpinning this technology. Previous research has shown that clinicians often do not understand pulse oximetry at depth.

A scoping review was conducted.

A review of contemporary research was conducted to determine clinicians' understanding of how to use a pulse oximeter. Eligibility criteria included studies published in English from 2019 onwards which examined clinicians' knowledge of pulse oximetry. A search of CINAHL, MEDLINE, and PubMed databases identified 11 studies that met the inclusion criteria.

Eleven relevant studies were identified. The findings of this review indicated that despite pulse oximeters being a commonly used clinical tool, clinicians using it often have little or no education regarding its use and therefore poor understanding of how to use it correctly.

Clinicians' knowledge of pulse oximetry continues to be poor. Undergraduate and clinical education focused on pulse oximetry is therefore needed to address this significant knowledge gap. Clinicians using pulse oximetry should reflect on their knowledge of this technology and not just basic user functions and address any gaps in their clinical knowledge.

Despite pulse oximetry being important for patient assessment, research indicates clinicians' understanding of this technology remains poor. It is time for educators to address this significant knowledge gap.