More Reliable Pulse Oximetry Readings

A study has resulted in new technology to improve pulse oximetry performance during patient motion and thereby provide more reliable readings with fewer false alarms. The study was published in Anesthesia and Analgesia (2002;94:S54-61).

Researchers at Datex-Ohmeda (Helsinki, Finland) studied hundreds of patients, from neonates to adults, in clinical settings and categorized types of patient motion for the purpose of improving pulse oximetry readings. They concluded that simulated motions for the purpose of testing pulse oximetry should include extend/flex/kick and clench/press/rub motion types, which represent the most common types of clinical patient motions. They decided that the traditional finger-tapping used for testing motion technologies may not be an accurate simulation of actual patient motion.

Based on their findings, the researchers developed algorithms to identify, quantify, and correct clinical patient motions to allow for better tracking of the SpO2 signal. The new technology, called TruTrak+, selects one of many motion correction algorithms, depending on the clinical motion type and intensity.

The new technology has been incorporated into the 3800 and 3900 stand-alone pulse oximeters and hand-held pulse oximeters of Datex-Ohmeda and is also available in a plug-in module designed for use with its multiparameter monitors.




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Datex-Ohmeda