Learning outcome 1: Explain how pulse oximetry works and how it is used

Have you seen pulse oximetry used in practice? If so, can you remember what the equipment looked like, and do you know how it works? What is a normal reading?

ACTIVITY

Pulse oximeters range from small hand-held devices displaying the percentage of

oxygen saturation and the pulse rate, to more substantial devices that also show

the pulsatile waveform (see Fig. 4.6). The box has a wire leading to the sensor or

probe – a clip or sleeve which is placed on a finger, toe or earlobe. Probes can be

disposable or reusable and are available in different sizes. The diagram in Fig. 4.7

shows how the sensor works.