What does pulse oximetry measure?

Pulse oximetry measures the oxygen concentration in the blood, specifically the amount of oxygenated hemoglobin as a percentage of total hemoglobin in the blood. This measurement is crucial for assessing how well oxygen is being transported throughout the body, particularly in patients with respiratory or cardiovascular conditions.

In a clinical setting, a pulse oximeter is gently placed on a patient's fingertip or earlobe, and it uses light sensors to determine the oxygen saturation levels non-invasively. The readings help dental professionals monitor a patient's oxygen levels during procedures, ensuring patient safety and appropriate responses if oxygen levels fall below normal levels.

Understanding oxygen concentration is essential in dental practice as some procedures can lead to the potential risk of hypoxia, especially when sedatives or anesthetics are used. Monitoring this vital sign ensures that dental assistants and healthcare providers can effectively respond to any potential complications related to inadequate oxygenation.