Application of pulse oximetry and the oxyhemoglobin dissociation curve in respiratory management

Teaching the principles of respiratory management in a developing Spanish-speaking country presents many challenges. It is futile, for example, to present content on blood gas analysis when the equipment to analyze blood gases is not available. However, pulse oximetry in available in many of these countries and can be used to manage the patient's oxygen flow rates or ventilator changes. This article explores the value of the oxyhemoglobin dissociation curve in this context and also reinforces the basic principles of pulse oximetry in respiratory management for nurses in the United States and abroad.