Oxygen saturation values measured continuously by ear oximetry reveal the need for different oxygen prescriptions during conditions of rest, exercise, and sleep in patients who require oxygen therapy at home. In comparison to arterial blood sampling during rest and exercise, oximetry allows a more complete evaluation of oxygen requirements, is less traumatic, and frequently documents transient events that pass undetected by arterial blood gas analysis. In pulmonary rehabilitation programs, oximetry may be useful where spirometry has failed, as a simple, accurate, and reliable means of determining patient improvement. The use of oximetry for follow-up testing at regular intervals may disclose changes in supplemental oxygen needs and provide objective measurements of patient status and documentation for terminating, continuing, or changing oxygen therapy.
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