Pulse oximetry can be a useful tool for professional school nurses who daily assess students with a variety of health issues and injuries. Pulse oximeters are now smaller and more affordable and, therefore, an option for school districts to purchase. Before implementing this new tool into their practice, school nurses must have an understanding of how pulse oximeters work and how they measure the oxygen saturation of arterial hemoglobin. A review of the literature will guide a nurse in developing clinical guidelines for practice and facilitating competency in using a pulse oximeter with the ultimate goal of improving student health assessments.
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