Pulse oximetry. Implications for practice.

Pulse oximetry is used routinely in neonatal care to monitor oxygen in compromised neonates. A discussion of oximetry for monitoring unstable neonates is presented. Topics covered include physiologic principles of oxygen transport, technical aspects of the oximeter (accuracy, reliability, advantages, and limitations), acceptable limits of arterial oxygen saturation, implications for nursing practice, and use of the device in selected clinical conditions.