Physio-Control LIFEPAK 15 - Manual (Page 72)

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LIFEPAK 15 Monitor/Defibrillator Operating Instructions
Monitoring SpO2, SpCO, and SpMet
How a Pulse Oximeter Works
A pulse oximeter sensor directs light through a patient’s fleshy body site (usually a finger or toe).
The sensor sends wavelengths of light from the emitter to the receiving detector as shown in
Figure 4-11.
Figure 4-11 How a Pulse Oximeter Works
The pulse oximeter translates the amount of light received by the detector to the various forms of
hemoglobin saturation levels and displays them as SpO
2
, SpCO, and SpMet percentages. Normal
values for SpO
2
typically range from 95% to 100%. Normal values for SpCO are typically less than
9% (the higher range of normal is often seen in smokers). Normal values for SpMet are typically
less than 2% and may be caused by exposure to some pharmaceuticals including local anesthetic
agents and chemical agents such as nitrites.
SpO2, SpCO, and SpMet Monitoring Considerations
The quality of the SpO
2
, SpCO, and SpMet readings depends on correct sensor size and placement,
adequate blood flow through the sensor site, and limiting patient motion and sensor exposure to
ambient light. For example, with very low perfusion at the sensor site, readings may be lower than
core arterial oxygen saturation. Test methods for accuracy are available by contacting your local
Physio-Control representative.
Use the following criteria to select the appropriate pulse oximeter sensor:
• Patient size (adult, pediatric, infant) and weight
• Patient perfusion to extremities
• Patient activity level
• Available application sites on the patient’s body
• Sterility requirements
• Anticipated duration of monitoring
Sensor (holds LEDs
and detector)
Red Infrared
Light-emitting diodes
Light-receiving detector
Cable