Pulse oximetry in general practice: How would a pulse oximeter influence patient management?

Abstract

The pulse oximeter is a vital piece of equipment in secondary care for the non-invasive monitoring of oxygen saturation. With the increasing affordability of the oximeter and recognition of its clinical applications, there is an increasing interest in its role in primary care. The decision was made that a systematic review was not feasible due to the lack of data concerning the influence of pulse oximetry on patient management and on the extent of oximetry use in the general practice setting. In this article, a selection of studies is presented looking into its clinical use and limitations. The role and potential of the oximeter as a screening tool and aid in the assessment of hypoxia in a variety of clinical situations in primary care is discussed.

Pulse oximetry in primary care: primary care diagnostic technology update

“…3 However, data on the role of pulse oximeters in general practice is limited. A recent survey of GPs revealed a minority (9%) reported they used a pulse oximeter to measure pulse rate, or to assess respiratory status (20%).…”

What is the role of pulse oximetry in the assessment of patients with community-acquired pneumonia in primary care?

“…10 The percentage of capillary haemoglobin that is saturated with oxygen (S pO2) can be quantified rapidly and non-invasively using a pulse oximeter. Pulse oximeters are increasingly being used in primary care in the assessment of a variety of respiratory conditions, 11 and national guidelines recommend the use of pulse oximetry in primary care to inform severity assessment and admission decisions. 10,12 However, few data support these recommendations (grade D evidence).…”

The role of pulse oximetry in chiropractic practice: a rationale for its use

“…Although there are not much data to date on its use in outpatient settings, it is becoming more widely used in such settings as general practices, [17][18][19] pediatrics, [20][21][22] dentistry, 23,24 sport science, 25 acupuncture, 26 and even at home. 21,27 The authors believe that there are strong arguments for its use within the chiropractic clinical practice.…”