Which of the following is the MOST accurate description of pulse oximetry?
Understand the Problem
The question asks for the most accurate description of pulse oximetry. This requires understanding what pulse oximetry measures.
Answer
Pulse oximetry is a noninvasive method for measuring oxygen saturation in a person's blood.
Pulse oximetry is a noninvasive method for measuring oxygen saturation in a person's blood. It quickly estimates the percentage of hemoglobin in the blood that is saturated with oxygen.
Answer for screen readers
Pulse oximetry is a noninvasive method for measuring oxygen saturation in a person's blood. It quickly estimates the percentage of hemoglobin in the blood that is saturated with oxygen.
More Information
Pulse oximetry is often used in hospitals, clinics, and even at home to monitor a person's oxygen saturation levels. It's a valuable tool for assessing respiratory function and detecting hypoxemia (low blood oxygen levels).
Tips
A common mistake is thinking pulse oximetry directly measures the amount of oxygen in the blood. It actually measures the saturation of oxygen bound to hemoglobin.
Sources
- Pulse Oximetry | Johns Hopkins Medicine - hopkinsmedicine.org
- Pulse Oximetry - StatPearls - NCBI Bookshelf - ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- Pulse Oximetry | American Lung Association - lung.org
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