Final answer:
To ensure adequate measurement of oxygen saturation in a patient with obesity, use a sensor on a finger or a disposable tape-on sensor for accuracy. The bridge of the nose is not a suitable site, while the ear may be considered as an alternative.
Step-by-step explanation:
When measuring a patient's oxygen saturation level, especially in a patient with obesity, selecting the proper sensor placement is critical to ensure an accurate reading.
- False: Place the sensor on the ear. While this can be an alternative site, it is not typically the first choice.
- False: Place the sensor on the bridge of the nose. This is not a recommended site for pulse oximetry.
- True: Place the sensor on a finger. This is a common practice, as the finger provides a thin enough area for the device to measure the oxygen saturation accurately.
- True: Use a disposable tape-on sensor. These can be useful for patients where traditional clip sensors may not fit properly or where issues such as poor peripheral perfusion are present.
A pulse oximeter functions by transmitting red and infrared light through a thin area of the body, like a fingertip, to measure the amount of light absorbed by hemoglobin. This informs the oxygen saturation level in the blood, an important marker of respiratory functionality and overall health.