einstein (São Paulo). 01/Oct/2010;8(4 Pt 1):449-55.
Adjustment of oxygen use by means of pulse oximetry: an important tool for patient safety
DOI: 10.1590/S1679-45082010AO1377
ABSTRACT
Objective:
To assess patient’s level of oxygenation by means of pulse oximetry, avoiding hypoxia (that causes rapid and severe damage), hyperoxia, and waste.
Methods:
Calculations were made with a 7% margin of error and a 95% confidence interval. Physical therapists were instructed to check pulse oximetry of all patients with prescriptions for physical therapy, observing the scheduled number of procedures.
Results:
A total of 129 patients were evaluated. Hyperoxia predominated in the sectors in which the patient was constantly monitored and hypoxia in the sectors in which monitoring was not continuous.
Conclusions:
Professionals involved in patient care must be made aware of the importance of adjusting oxygen use and the risk that non-adjustment represents in terms of quality of care and patient safety.
Keywords: Anoxia; Oximetry; Oxygen therapy/adverse effects
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