[Optimized analgesic sedation. Improved possibilities in high-risk patients through the use of pulse oximetry].

The pulse oximeter allows quick assessment of a patient's respiratory function and the early detection of imminent hypoxia (Singer and Thomas, 1988). It is a useful means in non-continuous circulatory monitoring and is not stressful to the patient. In analgosedation it enables the operator to monitor the respiratory effect of the drugs used with almost no delay, to take the counter-measures required and to adapt the dosage to the individual requirements of each patient.