The pulse oximetry device is a well-known instrument that enables care providers to monitor and measure a patient’s blood oxygen levels. This is a non-invasive, rapid measuring practice that attaches to a body part, most commonly the patient’s finger. Here, we take a closer look at the use of the pulse oximetry instrument for pediatrics and discuss how to understand the readings.

General Purposes and Uses

The primary purpose of a pulse oximeter is to measure the quality and overall supply of oxygenation in the blood. These devices are often attached to an accessible body part on the patient when they enter an emergent situation or when a care provider suspects critical conditions.

A few other situations where you may find an oximetry device in use include:

• Heart failure or heart attack
• Asthmatic patients
• Patients with or with suspected COPD
• Anemia or suspected anemia

How To Administer a Reading

Administering a reading with a pulse oximetry device is beneficial in outpatient and inpatient scenarios. It’s not uncommon for a primary care provider to prescribe you a pulse oximetry device for in-home use, specifically if they need continuous measurements.

To use a pulse oximetry device to administer a reading, use the following steps:

• Remove nail polish or jewelry from the selected finger
• Place the hand below heart level and ensure the hand is warm and relaxed
• You may place the measurement device on the finger or clip it to a toe or earlobe
• Keep the reader in position for as long as necessary until the oxygen saturation and pulse begin monitoring
• Once the measurements are finished, you can remove the device without any additional steps

In addition to measuring the overall oxygen saturation, the pulse oximetry will detect the heart rate at the testing time. This is a painless, non-invasive process.

Understanding the Pulse Oximetry Read

While most pulse oximetry reads are estimates, they are often precise. Their accuracy can also be directly linked to the type and quality of the equipment used when measuring. Most often, hospitals and medical practices invest in the highest quality devices to ensure efficiency, reliability, and accuracy.

The ideal oxygen saturation range is at or above 89 percent saturation. But it’s essential to note that if the test measured temporarily below these values, it’s not a cause for immediate concern. The only time it becomes an issue is when the test measures below this value repeatedly or consistently.

When attaching a pediatric pulse oximeter, attach it to the patient’s finger until the end reaches the interior of the device. Because a child’s finger is smaller, you may need to wrap the device in medical tape to ensure thorough positioning.

Try to keep the child still for one to two minutes until the test finishes. If the reads are inconclusive or unsteady, you may need to try a different finger.

Cascade Health Care is a leading supplier of medical devices and instruments. To learn more about pulse oximetry devices and readings for adult and pediatric health, partner with us today!