Learn how to use and care for the Pulse Oximeter

The pulse oximeter is indicated for patients who usually have periods of low blood oxygenation in situations such as: physical exercises, plane trips and high altitude places. Having the oximeter on hand, in these situations, allows you to monitor the O² level and thus know if it is necessary to increase the flow of supplemental oxygen. For this, it is necessary to follow the medical prescription in relation to the number of oxygen saturation that the patient must maintain.

The oximeter is connected to a sensor, consisting of a small unit to be placed directly on the finger or a portable device that, connected to a wire, can also be adapted to the finger or earlobe. To know if you have a good signal on the oximeter, just count the pulse for one minute and compare it with the number obtained on the device. If they are similar, the patient has a good sign.

 

Oximeter Instructions for Use

  • When positioning the oximeter sensor, prefer the index finger or the little finger
  • Remove nail polish and false nails as they can cause inaccurate readings
  • Place your finger on the sensor until it touches the limiter
  • Position the cable along the finger and parallel to the arm.

To place the sensor in the ear

  • Choose the location, prefer the earlobe or the auricle
  • Before applying the sensor, rub the ear with your fingers to increase circulation
  • Open the clip by squeezing its ends and then apply it to the ear

 

Oximeter cleaning

Sensors must be cleaned after each use and before being used on another patient:

  1. Disconnect the sensor from the monitoring device;
  2. Moisten a clean cloth with a solution of water and neutral detergent and wipe all exposed surfaces of the sensor and cable;
  3. Moisten another cloth with sterile or distilled water to remove any chemicals;
  4. Dry the sensor and cable.

Attention: do not autoclave, do not use excessive heat and never submerge the sensor in liquid

Oximeter disinfection

Ethylene oxide is the most recommended, but in the absence of this, there are other products indicated:

  • 3% hydrogen peroxide
  • Isopropanol 70&
  • 1:10 solution of sodium hypochlorite
  • Chemical disinfectants composed of quaternary ammonium (eg, benzalkonium chloride)