[Pulse oximetry in pediatric practice]

Abstract

Pulse oximetry is a reliable technique for continuous, transcutaneous measurement of oxygen saturation and pulse frequency. Common indications for pulse oximetry in general pediatrics include: monitoring of oxygenation during an asthma attack, detection of apnea or hypoventilation, diagnosis of hypoxemia in patients with chronic respiratory insufficiency and monitoring of oxygen suppletion. In this article we discuss the various applications and limitations of pulse oximetry in clinical practice and describe a method to store, analyse and present pulse oximeter-results.