Quiz: Using a Pulse Oximeter

A nurse takes a client's pulse oximetry reading and finds that it is normal. What does this finding indicate?

The client's available hemoglobin is adequately saturated with oxygen.

The nurse is using a pulse oximeter to measure the oxygen saturation for a client with lung cancer. Normally, where would the nurse place the probe of the device?

The index finger.

The nurse is using a pulse oximeter to monitor a client's oxygen saturation following abdominal surgery to ensure adequate oxygenation. The health care provider has set a parameter of 92%. How would the nurse maintain this parameter?

Adjusting the flow of oxygen to maintain an oxygen saturation level at or above 92%.

The nurse is using a pulse oximeter to monitor a client who is receiving oxygen therapy via a nasal cannula. The nurse explains to the client that which factor might affect the results of pulse oximetry?

Alterations in circulation.

What would the nurse use to prepare the site for attachment of a pulse oximeter probe?

An alcohol wipe.

What assessment would the nurse make prior to using a pulse oximeter to measure oxygen saturation?

Capillary refill.

The nurse has attached the probe of a pulse oximeter to the finger of a client to monitor oxygen saturation. The nurse notices that the oximeter reads a low saturation of 88 percent with irregular meter pulsations; however, upon assessment of the client, the nurse finds no symptoms of respiratory distress. What might be causing this failure to obtain an accurate reading?

Peripheral vascular disease.

The nurse is preparing the site for applying the probe of a pulse oximeter. What would the nurse do to ensure accurate results?

Remove any nail polish on the client's fingers.

The nurse on a telemetry unit is assessing oxygen saturation of a client admitted with severe peripheral edema using a pulse oximeter. The nurse obtains a weak and inaccurate pulse oximeter reading. What actions constitute the correct response by the nurse? Select all that apply.

Request a prescription for an arterial blood gas level by the lab., Use an ear pulse oximeter probe on one of the client's ears.

A nurse must take a client's pulse oximetry reading. The nurse is explaining the technique to the client. Which statements about pulse oximetry are true? Select all that apply.

Sensors are available for use on the finger, toe, foot, earlobe, forehead, and bridge of the nose., Once the oximetry probe is correctly placed, a beam of red and infrared light travels through the tissue and blood vessels.

The nurse is turning on the pulse oximeter and notices a bar form on the machine. What does this bar represent?

Signal strength.

The nurse is checking capillary refill to measure circulation in the client's index finger prior to using a pulse oximeter. What would be the next best site to place the probe if circulation is found to be inadequate at this site?

The bridge of the nose.

The nurse is checking a client's oxygen saturation level using a pulse oximeter. How should the probe be placed on the finger?

With the light-emitting sensor and light-receiving sensor opposite each other.