NORTH COAST EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES Policy # 5326

POLICIES AND PROCEDURES

Subject: Medical Direction

Pulse Oximetry Device

Associated Policies: 01/15/98

1. Indications:

1. Any patients in whom hypoxemia is suspected.
2. Pulse oximetry usage is useful on all patients. It quantifies the effect of interventions, including oxygen, medication, suctioning, and ventilatory assistance.

2. Therapeutic Effects:

1. Useful adjunct in determining effective oxygenation status of the patient.

3. Contraindications

1. Absolute:

1. None

4. Equipment:

1. Pulse oximetry device.
2. Adult and pediatric sensor probes.

5. Procedure

1. Place the sensing unit of the pulse oximeter over a peripheral capillary bed, (the fingertip, toe, or ear lobe.) In infants, the probe can be taped to the heel.
2. The pulse oximeter functions by measuring the transmission of red and infrared light through an arterial bed

1. Readings between 96% to 100% are normal.
2. Readings between 91% to 95% indicate mild hypoxia.
3. Readings between 86% to 91% indicate moderate hypoxia.
4. Readings less than 85% indicate severe hypoxia.

6. Special Information:

1. Circumstances that can produce false readings include:

1. Carbon monoxide.
2. Excessive ambient light.
3. Patient movement.
4. Hypotension.
5. Hypothermia.
6. Patient use of vasoconstrictive drugs.
7. Use of nail polish.
8. Jaundice.

1. Regardless of oxygen saturation reading, supplemental oxygen should not be withheld from patients who complain of:

1. Chest pain.
2. Respiratory distress.
3. Diminished level of consciousness.
4. Trauma.