56 Welch Allyn
Factors that may degrade the performance of the pulse oximeter:
• Excessive ambient light
• Excessive motion
• Electrosurgical interference
• Arterial catheters, blood pressure, and infusion lines, etc.
• Moisture in the sensor
• Improperly attached sensor
• Incorrect sensor for patient
• Poor patient perfusion
• Venous pulsations
• Anemia or low hemoglobin concentrations
• Cardiovascular dyes
• Sensor not at heart level
• Fingernail polish (if finger sensor is used)
Caution: Discontinue use of double-backed adhesive strips or the Hydrogel tape strips if the
patient exhibits allergic reactions to the adhesive material.
Caution: Check sensor sites periodically to determine circulation, sensor positioning, and skin
sensitivity.
Applying the Appropriate Oximeter Sensor
Finger Clip Sensor - The finger clip sensor is for spot check measurement of pediatric and adult
patients, or continuous measurement less than 10 minutes where patient movement is not
expected and the patient's finger is large enough for the sensor to be attached securely.
Note: If patient movement is occurring or the finger size is inappropriate, select a different sensor that is
appropriate for the patient.
Insert finger (preferably left or right index finger) completely into the sensor. The thumb is
specifically not recommended for use with the finger clip sensor.
Note: For best results, secure the sensor cable independently from the sensor, preferably around the
base of the finger. Make sure the tape securing the cable does not restrict blood flow.
Flex Sensor - The flex sensor is for measurement of pediatric and adult patients in which moder-
ate patient movement is expected. Apply the double stick tape to the smooth side of the sensor.
Position the sensor on the top and bottom of the end of the finger or toe. Place the light emitter
portion on the finger/toe nail side, and the detector on the side opposite of the nail. In all sensor
placement applications, align the windows (detector and emitter portions of the sensor) over the
tissue. Attach the sensor using 3M Micropore™
*
tape or equivalent, and wrap the tape or sen-
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