Question

What are the indications for the use of pulse oximetry?

a) when delayed cord clamping is in progress
b) to confirm your perception of central cyanosis
c) to assess the need for supplemental oxygen
d) to guide oxygen concentration
e) all babies should have pulse oximetry applied
f) when PPV is required

Answer 1

Pulse oximetry is used to measure the oxygen saturation level in blood, which can indicate the metabolic rate and alert to medical problems. Indications for its use include confirmation of cyanosis, assessing the need for and guiding supplemental oxygen therapy, during PPV, and in neonatal care during procedures like delayed cord clamping.

Step-by-step explanation:

​​Pulse oximetry is a non-invasive monitoring technique used to measure the oxygen saturation level of hemoglobin in the blood. It provides an indication of the metabolic rate of an individual which may reflect their level of athletic conditioning or signify certain medical problems. Pulse oximeters send two wavelengths of light through a thin part of the body, usually a finger, and measure how much light is absorbed by oxygenated and deoxygenated hemoglobin in the blood, providing a readout of the oxygen saturation level. This reading helps in determining the need for supplemental oxygen and in monitoring various health conditions.

Indications for the use of pulse oximetry include:

• to confirm the nurse's or doctor's perception of central cyanosis,
• to assess the need for supplemental oxygen during medical scenarios such as surgery or respiratory distress,
• to guide administration and concentration of oxygen therapy,
• when positive pressure ventilation (PPV) is necessary during resuscitation,
• as part of neonatal care, including during procedures such as delayed cord clamping to monitor the baby's oxygen levels.