PROCEDURE. 1. Follow steps 1–4 of General Guidelines

1. Follow steps 1–4 of General Guidelines.

2. Select sensor site that is free of moisture and drainage.

Assess capillary refill and proximal pulse. Adequate perfusion necessary for accurate reading.

a. Infant: Big toe or foot. (Figures 7 and 8)

FIGURE 8 Placement of pulse oximeter on foot.

b. Toddler through adolescent: finger.

NOTE: May also use earlobe.

3. Cleanse site. Remove nail polish or artificial nails. Nail polish and artificial nails alter results.

4. Follow manufacturer’s instructions for setting up oximeter. Connect sensor to oximeter and set alarms as ordered.

5. Position sensor with light-emitting diode (LED) and photosensor aligned on opposite sides of the selected site. Prevents optical shunting and ensures accurate

results.

6. Obtain reading.

7. Watch pulse bar for pulse sensing.

8. Obtain arterial blood gas (ABG) if ordered. Promotes confidence in oximetry readings.

9. Cover sensor. Ambient light can skew readings.

10. Assess probe/sensor site every 2–4 hours. Protects against skin breakdown; ensures correct placement.

11. Rotate probe/sensor site every 2 hours for a springloaded sensor and every 4 hours for an adhesive sensor. Maintains skin integrity.

12. Wash hands. Reduces transmission of microorganisms.