Welch Allyn Vital Signs Monitor - User Manual - Manual (Page 42)

36 Vital Signs Monitor
Measuring SpO
2
SpO
2
Operation Mode
The Welch Allyn Vital Signs Monitor incorporates the Nellcor Puritan Bennett™ pulse oximetry mod-
ule. The pulse oximeter determines arterial oxyhemoglobin saturation (SpO
2
%) by measuring the
absorption of red and infrared light passed through the tissues. Changes in absorption caused by
pulsation of blood in the vascular bed are used to determine arterial saturation and pulse rate.
Oxygen saturation percent is calculated with each pulse detected, and thus the Monitor display is
continually updated. The pulse signal bar graph is an indicator of the strength and quality of the
detected pulses.
SpO
2
is generally measured via pulses detected using a finger clip sensor. There are several sizes
of fingerclip sensors, and they come in both reusable and disposable styles. Sensors come in sizes
for adults and children. There are also sensors available that use the toes, forehead, ear or nose as
the measurement sites. To obtain optimal performance, use an appropriate sensor and apply it as
described in the sensor’s directions for use.
WARNING: Only Nellcor brand SpO
2
sensors and accessories should be used with Welch Allyn Vital Signs
Monitors configured with the Nellcor pulse oximetry option.
Taking an SpO
2
Measurement
Prior to taking an SpO
2
measurement, ensure that the SpO
2
mode of the Welch Allyn Vital Signs
Monitor is functional. See “Choosing Operating Modes” on page 18 . The operator should follow
this procedure for taking an SpO
2
measurement:
1. Properly attach the appropriate sensor to the patient. Verify the cable to the sensor is attached
properly to the SpO
2
connector.
WARNING: Do not place the fingerclip sensor on an arm that is also being used for blood pressure
monitoring. Blood pressure cuff inflation during SpO
2
measurement will cause inaccurate
SpO
2
results and false alarms.
NOTE: Avoid excessive ambient light, which can affect sensor performance, by keeping the
fingerclip sensor and sensor site covered with an opaque material.
2. The pulse signal bar graph will illuminate, indicating the relative strength and quality of the
patient's pulses at the sensor site. The sensor takes approximately 10 seconds to determine the
The Nellcor Finger Clip Sensor