SS>Hi Mike.. I just thought I would write you and let you know our servive
SS>has just started to use Pulse Oximeters and I have not found them to be
SS>that usefullness.. I mean it is another piece of equipment that you have
SS>to take the time to use before you can treat the patient...room air vs
SS>high flow oxygen... but no matter what the meter reads you are still to
SS>treat the patient with oxygen.. read it for documentation I guess..
SS>Word is that we will not be buying anymore... or anytime soon.
SS>Hope this helps you out !!
You are correct in that high levels of SaO2 are not contraindications
for the use of oxygen, however, the biggest advantage in field use of
pulse-ox is seen in the total pt care picture.  Assuming that you have a
pulse-ox handy at then scene (like a small on in the crash-bag) you can
apply this as you are applying O2, or setting up for an IV.  This
initial number (not enough time has passed for the effects of the
just-applied O2 to have reached the extremities) can simply be recorded
for the MD's later use.   NOW, the pt does not have to be taken off of
O2 upon arrival at the ER for a room-air SaO2 reading, which we all know
that us medics completely "ruin" by putting NRB's on the Pt.  My
goodness! what were we thinking?!
                                        Mike Garvin, EMT-P
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