Use of Pulse Oximetry in Newborns Research Assignment

Use of Pulse Oximetry in Newborns
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Use of Pulse Oximetry in Newborns
One variable needed to promote accuracy of pulse oximetry results is the baby’s condition. When analyzing the baby for a pulsatile flow, there is a need for sufficient perfusion in the area being monitored. In this case, if the baby has weak or absent peripheral pulse, the reading from the pulse oximetry will often not be precise (Sholler, 2015). The other variable is the external influences. Given that the pulse oximeter measures the quantity of light transferred through the arterial blood, the presence of light that directly shines into the sensor regardless of whether it is artificial or natural could have an impact on the results. Other external factors like dirty sensors could interfere with the accuracy of the results (Jawin, Ang, Omar & Thong, 2015).
One benefit of pulse oximetry in all newborns is that it helps in identifying congenital heart defects. When conspicuous results are found in the oximetry screening it could be a sign of other conditions such as heart disease that can be identified on time. The other benefit is that pulse oximetry in all newborns can be used to measure the amount of oxygen in the blood. When the amount of oxygen in the blood is low or below the required quantity, further t...