Pulse oximetry
Description
Used intermittently or continuously to noninvasively monitor arterial oxygen saturation (SaO2)
Photodetector slipped over finger measures the transmitted light as it passes through the vascular bed, detecting the relative amount of color absorbed by arterial blood, and calculating the exact mixed venous oxygen saturation without interference from surrounding venous blood, skin, connective tissue, or bone
With an ear probe, works by monitoring transmission of light waves through the vascular bed of a child’s earlobe; results possibly inaccurate if the child’s earlobe is poorly perfused
Equipment
Oximeter ♦ finger or ear probe ♦ alcohol pads ♦ nail polish remover, if necessary
Essential steps
Explain the procedure to the child and his parents.
Put the probe on the parent or nurse so the child can see that it’s painless.
For pulse oximetry using a finger probe
Select a finger (usually index finger) for the test.
Remove nail polish from the test finger if applicable.
Place the transducer (photodetector) probe over the child’s finger so light beams and sensors oppose each other.
Trim long fingernails or position the probe perpendicular to the finger.
Position the child’s hand at heart level.
Alert
