Question

If the pulse rate on the pulse ox differs from the EKG monitor, What is the O2 saturation reading?

1) Higher than the EKG monitor reading
2) Lower than the EKG monitor reading
3) The same as the EKG monitor reading
4) Cannot be determined

Answer 1

The O2 saturation reading cannot be determined solely from differences between the pulse rate on a pulse oximeter and the EKG monitor, as they measure different aspects of physiological function.

Step-by-step explanation:

If the pulse rate on the pulse oximeter differs from the EKG monitor, the O2 saturation reading cannot be directly inferred as higher or lower based only on that difference. A pulse oximeter measures the amount of oxygen in the blood, more specifically, the percentage of hemoglobin sites occupied by oxygen, which is presented as percent saturation. This value is different from the electrical activity of the heart measured by the EKG. The pulse oximeter works through light absorption, while an EKG measures electrical pulses. Therefore, differences in readings between these two devices do not necessarily correlate with changes in oxygen saturation levels; hence, the correct answer is (4) Cannot be determined.