What is oximetry (pulse)?
A technique called pulse oximetry is performed to determine the blood’s oxygen saturation level. It is a simple, painless test to determine how well oxygen is being delivered to the body parts that are farthest from the heart, such the arms and legs.
A probe, which resembles a clip, is applied to a bodily part, such an ear lobe or finger, which measures the amount of oxygen in the blood using light. This knowledge aids the medical professional in determining if a patient requires additional oxygen.
Why could pulse oximetry be necessary?
To determine if there is adequate oxygen in the blood, pulse oximetry may be employed.
Numerous circumstances call for this information. It can be used for:
During or during sedation-related procedures or surgery
to assess the efficacy of lung medication
to determine a person’s capacity for higher levels of activity
to determine whether a ventilator is necessary to assist with breathing or to assess its effectiveness
To determine if someone experiences sleep-related breathing pauses (sleep apnea)
Additionally, pulse oximetry is used to assess a person’s health for any illness that impacts blood oxygen levels, such as:
Chest pain
Heart attack
Pulmonary illness with chronic obstruction (COPD)
Anemia
Chest cancer
Asthma
Pneumonia
Other factors may have led your doctor to suggest pulse oximetry.
What dangers do pulse oximetry pose?
Every operation carries some risk. Among the potential dangers of this surgery are:
If the probe comes off the finger, toe, or earlobe, the readout will be incorrect.
Skin discomfort caused by the probe’s adhesive
Depending on your general health and other conditions, your risks may change. Which hazards concern you the most? Ask your doctor. Any worries you may have might be discussed with him or her.
How should I prepare for a pulse oximetry test?
The technique will be explained to you by your healthcare provider. Ask any questions you may have on the process. You could be requested to take off your fingernail polish if a finger probe is going to be utilised.
There may be further preparational instructions from your healthcare provider.
How does pulse oximetry work?
Your operation might be performed as an outpatient. You return home that same day as a result. Or it could be carried out as part of a protracted hospital stay. The method of execution can change. It relies on your health and the approaches used by your healthcare professional. Typically, pulse oximetry will go as follows:
On your finger or earlobe, a probe, which resembles a clip, will be positioned. Alternatively, a probe with a sticky adhesive may be applied to your finger or forehead.
The probe might be kept running for continuous observation.
Or you may utilise it to get a single reading. The probe will be taken out following the test.
What follows pulse oximetry?
Unless you need to stay in the hospital for another reason, you can leave following the test and go home. According to your healthcare provider’s instructions, you can resume your regular diet and activities. After the procedure, your healthcare professional might offer you additional instructions.