Asked by Renee O'Hanlon on Jul 03, 2024

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The patient has new-onset restlessness and confusion. Pulse rate is elevated, as is respiratory rate. Oxygen saturation is 94%. The nurse ignores the pulse oximeter reading and calls the health care provider for orders because the pulse oximetry reading is inaccurate. Which factors can cause inaccurate pulse oximetry readings? (Select all that apply.)

A) O2 saturations (SaO2) > 70%
B) Carbon monoxide inhalation
C) Hypothermic fingers
D) Intravascular dyes
E) Nail polish
F) Jaundice

Pulse Oximetry Readings

Measurements obtained with a pulse oximeter, indicating the oxygen saturation level of the blood.

Carbon Monoxide Inhalation

The act of breathing in carbon monoxide gas, which can lead to poisoning due to its ability to displace oxygen in the blood, potentially causing fatal health effects.

Intravascular Dyes

Colorful substances injected into the vascular system to enhance the visualization of structures and processes during medical imaging techniques.

  • Utilize understanding of elements affecting the precision of pulse oximetry measurements.
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Tanesha CeaserJul 05, 2024
Final Answer :
B, C, D, E, F
Explanation :
Inaccurate pulse oximetry readings can be caused by outside light sources, carbon monoxide (caused by smoke inhalation or poisoning), patient motion, jaundice, intravascular dyes (methylene blue), nail polish, artificial nails, metal studs, or dark skin. SpO2 is a reliable estimate of SaO2 when the SaO2 is over 70%.