Physio-Control LIFEPAK 20e - Manual (Page 56)

Monitoring
3-10 LIFEPAK 20e Defibrillator/Monitor Operating Instructions
When to Use a Pulse Oximeter
A pulse oximeter is a noninvasive tool that checks the saturation of oxygen in arterial blood
(SpO
2
) and is not to be used as an apnea monitor or as a replacement or substitute for ECG
based arrhythmia analysis. It is used for monitoring patients who are at risk of developing
hypoxemia. If a pulse oximeter is not used, the only indications of hypoxemia are a patient’s
dusky skin, nail beds, and mucous membranes, accompanied by restlessness and confusion.
These indications are not conclusive, however, and do not appear until after the patient has
developed hypoxemia. Pulse oximetry is to be used in addition to patient assessment. Care
should be taken to assess the patient at all times and to not solely rely on the SpO
2
reading. If a
trend toward patient deoxygenation is indicated, blood samples should be analyzed using
laboratory instruments to completely understand the patient’s condition.
How a Pulse Oximeter Works
A pulse oximeter sensor directs light through a fleshy body site (usually the finger or earlobe).
The sensor sends light from the emitting diodes to the receiving detector as shown in
Figure 3-4 .
Oxygen saturated blood absorbs light differently as compared to unsaturated blood. The pulse
oximeter translates the amount of light received into a saturation percentage and displays an
SpO
2
reading. Normal values typically range from 95% to 100% at sea level.
Inaccurate pulse oximeter readings.
Severe anemia, significant blood levels of carboxyhemoglobin or methemoglobin, elevated
levels of total bilirubin, intravascular dyes that change usual blood pigmentation, excessive
patient movement, venous pulsations, electrosurgical interference, exposure to irradiation and
placement of the sensor on an extremity that has a blood pressure cuff, intravascular line or
externally applied coloring (such as nail polish) may interfere with oximeter performance. The
operator should be thoroughly familiar with the operation of the oximeter prior to use.
Inaccurate pulse oximeter readings.
The pulsations from intra-aortic balloon support can be additive to the pulse rate. Verify patient’s
pulse rate against the ECG heart rate.
Skin injury.
Prolonged, continuous use of a sensor may cause irritation, blistering, or pressure necrosis of
the skin. Check the sensor site regularly based on patient condition and type of sensor. Change
the sensor site if skin changes occur. Do not use tape to hold the sensor in place, as this may
cause inaccurate readings or damage to the sensor or skin.
Possible strangulation.
Carefully route patient cabling to reduce the possibility of patient entanglement or strangulation.
CAUTION!
Possible equipment damage.
To avoid damaging the extension cable or the sensor, hold the connectors, rather than the
cables, when disconnecting.
WARNINGS! (CONTINUED)