Name of the Procedure:

Oxygen Saturation Results Documented and Reviewed
Common names: Pulse Oximetry, Arterial Blood Gas Measurement (ABG)
Technical terms: Oximetry, ABG

Summary

Oxygen saturation tests measure the amount of oxygen in your blood. These tests can be performed using a pulse oximeter, a small device clipped to your finger, or through an arterial blood gas (ABG) test, which involves drawing blood from an artery.

Purpose

This procedure assesses how well your lungs are delivering oxygen to your blood and how well your blood is carrying oxygen to your body tissues. It is crucial for managing conditions like Community-Acquired Pneumonia (CAP) and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD).

Indications

• Signs of respiratory distress or difficulty breathing
• Diagnosed respiratory conditions (e.g., CAP, COPD)
• Patients undergoing surgery or those receiving supplemental oxygen
• Monitoring effectiveness of treatment for lung diseases

Preparation

No special preparation is required for pulse oximetry.
For an ABG test:

• No fasting is necessary.
• Avoid certain medications as advised by your doctor.
• A brief health questionnaire might be completed.

Procedure Description

Pulse Oximetry:

1. Clip a pulse oximeter to your finger, toe, or earlobe.
2. The device uses light wavelengths to measure oxygen saturation and pulse rate.
3. The results are displayed within seconds.

Arterial Blood Gas (ABG) Measurement:

1. A healthcare provider draws blood from an artery, usually in the wrist.
2. The blood is analyzed in a lab for oxygen and carbon dioxide levels.
3. The results are reviewed to determine oxygen saturation levels and other critical parameters.

Duration

• Pulse Oximetry: A few seconds to a minute.
• ABG Test: Approximately 10-15 minutes, including blood draw and analysis.

Setting

• Pulse Oximetry: Performed at bedside, clinics, or home.
• ABG Test: Conducted in hospitals, clinics, or specialized labs.

Personnel

• Pulse Oximetry: Nurses, medical technicians, or even caregivers.
• ABG Test: Phlebotomists, nurses, or sometimes a doctor.

Risks and Complications

Pulse Oximetry:

• Low risk, but possible skin irritation from the clip.

ABG Test:

• Bruising, bleeding, or pain at the puncture site.
• Rarely, infection or arterial damage.

Benefits

• Non-invasive and quick for pulse oximetry.
• Provides valuable information about lung function and blood oxygen levels.
• Guides treatment decisions for respiratory conditions.

Recovery

Pulse Oximetry:

• No recovery period needed.

ABG Test:

• Keep the puncture site clean and avoid strenuous activities with the affected arm for a few hours.
• Apply pressure if you notice bleeding.

Alternatives

• Capnography for continuous monitoring of carbon dioxide levels.
• Venous blood gas (VBG) analysis, though less accurate for determining oxygen saturation.

Patient Experience

During the Procedure:

• Pulse Oximetry: Painless and quick.
• ABG Test: Mild discomfort or pain during blood draw.

After the Procedure:

• Pulse Oximetry: No aftereffects.
• ABG Test: Possible mild soreness or bruising at the puncture site.

Effective pain management and comfort measures can help mitigate discomfort during and after the procedure.