Inaccurate Sensor Measurement Conditions; Signal Loss; Recommended Usage - Nellcor OXIMAX N-600X Series Service Manual

Inaccurate Sensor Measurement Conditions

A variety of conditions can cause inaccurate sensor measurements.
•
Incorrect application of the OxiMax pulse oximetry sensor
•
Placement of the OxiMax pulse oximetry sensor on an extremity with a blood pressure
cuff, arterial catheter, or intravascular line
•
Ambient light
•
Excessive patient activity
•
Dark pigment
•
Intravascular dyes or externally applied coloring, such as nail polish or pigmented cream
•
Failure to cover the OxiMax pulse oximetry sensor site with opaque material in high
ambient light conditions

Signal Loss

Loss-of-pulse signal can occur for several reasons.
• The OxiMax pulse oximetry sensor is applied too tightly
• A blood pressure cuff is inflated on the same extremity as the attached OxiMax
pulse oximetry sensor
• There is arterial occlusion proximal to the OxiMax pulse oximetry sensor
• Poor peripheral perfusion

Recommended Usage

Select an appropriate OxiMax pulse oximetry sensor, apply it as directed, and observe
all warnings and cautions presented in the directions for use accompanying the sensor.
Clean and remove any substances such as nail polish from the application site.
Periodically check to ensure that the sensor remains properly positioned on the patient.
High ambient light sources such as surgical lights (especially those with a xenon light
source), bilirubin lamps, fluorescent lights, infrared heating lamps, and direct
sunlight can interfere with the performance of an OxiMax pulse oximetry sensor. To
prevent interference from ambient light, ensure that the sensor is properly applied,
and cover the sensor site with opaque material.
If patient activity presents a problem, try one or more of the following remedies to
correct the problem.
• Verify the OxiMax pulse oximetry sensor is properly and securely applied
• Move the sensor to a less active site
• Use an adhesive sensor that improves patient skin contact
• Use a new sensor with fresh adhesive backing
• Keep the patient still, if possible
If poor perfusion affects performance, consider using the Max-Fast™ adhesive
forehead sensor, which provides vastly superior detection in the presence of
Service Manual
OxiMax™ Pulse Oximetry Sensor Performance Considerations
10030881 Rev. B 12-2008
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