A nurse is checking the oximetry of a client ,who is at 2 liters oxygen by nasal cannula. The finger probe shows 89% oxygen saturation.

A nurse is checking the oximetry of a client ,who is at 2 liters oxygen by nasal cannula. The finger probe shows 89% oxygen saturation.

1. List three (3) reasons the pulse oximetry may register a low reading.
2. what is a pulse oximetry reading and what is normal finding.
3. suggest fundamental learning activity : oxygen therapy

ANSWER

Understanding Pulse Oximetry and Factors Affecting Readings: An Essential Guide to Oxygen Therapy

Introduction

Pulse oximetry is a non-invasive method used to measure the oxygen saturation level in a person’s blood. It provides crucial information about the effectiveness of oxygen therapy and aids healthcare professionals in monitoring patients’ respiratory status. However, there are several factors that can lead to low pulse oximetry readings. This article aims to explore three common reasons for low readings and provide an overview of what constitutes a normal pulse oximetry reading. Additionally, it will suggest a fundamental learning activity to enhance knowledge about oxygen therapy.

Factors Affecting Pulse Oximetry Readings

Decreased Lung Function: Impaired lung function, such as in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pneumonia, or asthma, can cause low pulse oximetry readings. When the lungs are unable to efficiently extract oxygen from the air, the oxygen saturation in the blood decreases, leading to lower readings on the pulse oximeter. It is crucial for healthcare professionals to consider the underlying respiratory condition when interpreting oximetry results.

Poor Peripheral Perfusion: Inadequate blood flow to the extremities can affect pulse oximetry readings (Lima et al., 2012). Factors like hypotension, vasoconstriction, or peripheral vascular disease can compromise blood supply to the fingers, where the pulse oximeter probe is typically placed. Insufficient blood perfusion can result in inaccurate readings, underestimating the actual oxygen saturation level in the arterial blood.

Probe Placement and Artifacts: Accurate placement of the pulse oximeter probe is essential for obtaining reliable readings. Incorrect positioning, excessive motion, or poor contact with the skin can introduce artifacts, leading to erroneous results. Movements like shivering, trembling, or patient agitation can also interfere with the probe’s signal acquisition and affect the accuracy of pulse oximetry measurements.

Normal Pulse Oximetry Readings

A normal pulse oximetry reading typically falls within the range of 95% to 100%. However, the acceptable range may vary depending on the patient’s medical condition and individual factors (Collins et al., 2015). For individuals with chronic respiratory diseases like COPD, a target range of 88% to 92% might be considered acceptable, as excessively high levels of oxygen saturation can suppress the respiratory drive in these patients (Beasley et al., 2015). It is important to note that healthcare professionals should assess each patient’s overall clinical condition and consult relevant guidelines when interpreting pulse oximetry readings.

Fundamental Learning Activity: Oxygen Therapy 

To optimize the learning experience for students or healthcare professionals, an interactive workshop on oxygen therapy can be conducted. The following components should be included in the session:

Introduction to Oxygen Therapy: Start with an overview of oxygen therapy, explaining its purpose, indications, and various delivery methods such as nasal cannula, face mask, and non-invasive ventilation.

Understanding Pulse Oximetry: Provide an in-depth explanation of pulse oximetry, including its mechanism, the significance of oxygen saturation levels, and the factors that can influence readings.

Common Respiratory Conditions: Discuss common respiratory conditions where oxygen therapy is frequently employed, such as COPD, pneumonia, and asthma. Explain the rationale behind oxygen therapy in each condition and the target oxygen saturation range.

Practical Demonstration: Arrange hands-on activities where participants can practice proper pulse oximeter probe placement techniques. Emphasize the importance of securing the probe correctly and minimizing movement artifacts for accurate readings.

Case Studies and Critical Thinking Exercises: Engage participants with case studies that involve oxygen therapy scenarios. Encourage them to analyze the patient’s condition, interpret pulse oximetry readings, and make appropriate decisions regarding oxygen therapy adjustments.

Interactive Discussions: Facilitate open discussions to address any questions, concerns, or misconceptions related to oxygen therapy and pulse oximetry readings. Encourage participants to share their experiences and insights.

Conclusion

Understanding the factors that can influence pulse oximetry readings is crucial for healthcare professionals involved in oxygen therapy. By recognizing the common causes of low readings, such as decreased lung function, poor peripheral perfusion, and artifacts, clinicians can make informed decisions about patient care. Moreover, organizing a fundamental learning activity on oxygen therapy can enhance participants’ knowledge, promote critical thinking skills, and ensure the delivery of effective oxygen therapy to patients in need.

References

Beasley, R., Chien, J., Douglas, J., Eastlake, L., Farah, C. S., King, G. G., Moore, R., Pilcher, J., Richards, M. P., Smith, S. M., & Walters, E. H. (2015). T horacic S ociety of A ustralia and N ew Z ealand oxygen guidelines for acute oxygen use in adults: ‘Swimming between the flags.’ Respirology, 20(8), 1182–1191. https://doi.org/10.1111/resp.12620 

Collins, J., Rudenski, A. S., Gibson, J., Howard, L., & O’Driscoll, R. L. (2015). Relating oxygen partial pressure, saturation and content: the haemoglobin–oxygen dissociation curve. Breathe, 11(3), 194–201. https://doi.org/10.1183/20734735.001415 

Lima, A., Van Genderen, M. E., Klijn, E., Bakker, J., & Van Bommel, J. (2012). Peripheral vasoconstriction influences thenar oxygen saturation as measured by near-infrared spectroscopy. Intensive Care Medicine, 38(4), 606–611. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00134-012-2486-3