The use and abuse of pulse oximetry

The clinical limitations of pulse oximetry are summarised in a table. “Safe” limitations are those when the observer is made aware of the inaccuracy of any indicated value of oxygen saturation whereas “Dangerous” limitations are those when a reasonable value of SpO₂ is indicated even though it is erroneous, the observer believing it is the correct value. The abuse of pulse oximetry is due to a poor awareness of the limitations of the technique. Despite many publications, pulse oximetry is still often relied upon to a greater extent than it should be. In some cases, it use may put a minority of patients to increased risk