(Download) "Understanding Pulse Oximetry: A Guide for Medical Assistants." by Journal of Continuing Education Topics & Issues ~ Book PDF Kindle ePub Free

eBook details

Title: Understanding Pulse Oximetry: A Guide for Medical Assistants.
Author : Journal of Continuing Education Topics & Issues
Release Date : January 01, 2007
Genre: Education,Books,Professional & Technical,
Pages : * pages
Size : 183 KB

Description

It's curious how we tend to take everyday conveniences for granted. Technology that was considered "miraculous" just a decade ago is assigned a role or task in the workplace and becomes just another element in a routine. We expect a device to perform and give accurate results, sometimes not understanding how it does what it does, or what the results really contribute to the assessment of a patient. This is the case with the pulse oximeter, a handy clinical device introduced in the late 1980s that facilitates rapid assessment of oxygenation status of a patient without have to break the skin and/or analyze whole blood. The non-invasive nature of the oximeter was a revolution for the times, as we were all dealing with Universal Precautions, and seeking ways to avoid contact with human blood or other potentially infectious materials. The other advent of the oximeter was its speed. Results could be obtained at the point of care in a matter of seconds. Another clinical innovation of the times that facilitated the oximeter's rapid success was the clot-buster drug Streptokinase. This clot-dissolving drug was being used cautiously to break down thromboemboli in heart attack and stroke victims. There was much trepidation about causing bleeding in patients receiving this therapy by blood sampling, so the oximeter offered a safe, non-invasive assessment of oxygenation that was a vital part of their care and management.