Pulse Oximetry
Pulse oximetry is a common way to measure how much oxygen is in a patient's blood without having to draw blood. Nurses use a small device called a pulse oximeter that clips onto a patient's finger or earlobe. It's like a tiny flashlight that shines through the skin to quickly tell how well oxygen is being carried throughout the body. This is one of the vital signs that nurses regularly check, along with temperature, blood pressure, and heart rate. It's especially important when caring for patients with breathing problems, during surgery, or in emergency situations.
Examples in Resumes
Monitored critical patients using Pulse Oximetry and other vital signs equipment
Trained new staff on proper Pulse Ox measurement techniques
Performed regular Pulse Oximetry readings in pediatric unit
Typical job title: "Nurses"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Nurses
Professional Organizations
Job Boards
Online Communities
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you handle a situation where a patient's pulse oximeter reading suddenly drops?
Expected Answer: A senior nurse should explain the steps of assessment, including checking equipment placement, patient position, circulation, and breathing. They should also discuss when to alert the medical team and potential interventions.
Q: How do you train new staff on proper pulse oximetry use and interpretation?
Expected Answer: Should discuss creating training protocols, common errors to avoid, importance of proper placement, and how to recognize and troubleshoot false readings.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What factors can affect pulse oximeter readings?
Expected Answer: Should mention things like nail polish, poor circulation, movement, cold extremities, and lighting conditions, and explain how to address these issues.
Q: How do you document pulse oximetry readings and what patterns do you look for?
Expected Answer: Should explain proper documentation procedures, normal ranges, concerning trends, and when to notify doctors about changes.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What is a normal pulse oximeter reading?
Expected Answer: Should know that normal readings are typically 95-100%, and understand when lower readings might be acceptable for certain patients with chronic conditions.
Q: Describe the proper way to place a pulse oximeter.
Expected Answer: Should explain proper placement on finger or earlobe, ensuring cleanliness, removing nail polish if necessary, and making sure the sensor fits properly.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic vital signs monitoring
- Proper use of pulse oximeters
- Normal reading ranges
- Basic documentation
Mid (2-5 years)
- Troubleshooting equipment issues
- Recognizing false readings
- Patient education
- Training other staff
Senior (5+ years)
- Complex patient assessment
- Emergency intervention
- Policy development
- Staff training program development
Red Flags to Watch For
- Unable to identify normal oxygen saturation ranges
- Lack of knowledge about factors affecting readings
- Poor documentation practices
- Inability to recognize when readings require immediate action
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