Question

What is a problem that is unique to monitoring with a pulse oximeter?

A) Readings may be affected by excessive movement.
B) Low readings are a late sign of ventilation problems.
C) Readings may be affected by high-perfusion states (high cardiac output or vasodilation).
D) Readings may be affected by patient shivering.
E) They may not be readily available on all transport monitors.

Answer 1

Excessive movement is a unique problem that affects the accuracy of pulse oximeter readings by interfering with the sensor's function, leading to potential misguidance in assessing a patient's oxygenation status.

Step-by-step explanation:

A problem that is unique to monitoring with a pulse oximeter is that A. readings may be affected by excessive movement. This device measures the saturation of oxygen in blood by sending two different wavelengths of light through the finger. While other factors, such as high-perfusion states or shivering, can also affect the readings, excessive patient movement can cause significant inaccuracy because it interferes with the sensor's ability to detect the light passing through the blood, leading to erroneous measurement of hemoglobin saturation. As a result, false readings could mislead healthcare providers about a patient's oxygenation status.