Data Validity And Signal Strength; Pleth Bar (Pulse Rate And Strength Indicator) - GE TuffSat User's Manual And Service Manual

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TuffSat User's Guide and Service Manual

Data validity and signal strength

The SpO
average. Both values are displayed when you begin to monitor a patient, however,
their display may be delayed slightly for patients with lower pulse rates.
If the displayed pulse rate and the patient's palpated pulse rate vary significantly,
motion artifact or other noise may be affecting the accuracy of the data. A cough or
other hemodynamic pressure disturbance can also disrupt the pulse rate.
The stability of the SpO
the sensor site, low signal strength, incorrect sensor placement, and electrical
interference may affect the stability of the readings.
To ensure the validity of the signal:
• Apply the sensor correctly to the patient (refer to the instructions for the sensor).
• Restrict motion at the sensor site or choose a site where motion is less likely.
• If possible, remove sources of electrical interference, such as electrosurgical and

Pleth bar (pulse rate and strength indicator)

The pleth bar—a column of seven segments—represents the plethysmographic
waveform. During monitoring, the lowest segment is always on; the other segments
pulsate (flash on and off).
• The rate at which the segments pulsate represents the pulse rate.
• The highest segment that pulsates represents the strength of the pulse—as the
If the pulse strength is low (only the lower four pleth bar segments pulsate), check
for the following:
• Poor alignment of sensor optical components
• Low perfusion
• Artificial fingernails or excessive fingernail polish
2-6
and pulse rate data are continuously calculated as a 12-second "moving"
2
readings is a good indicator of signal validity. Motion at
2
electrical/electronic devices.
pulse strength increases, the number of pulsating segments increases.
Make sure the sensor light source and sensor detector are directly opposite
each other and that the detector is completely covered by the patient's skin. If
the sensor site is thick, select a site where there is less distance between the
light source and the detector.
Change the sensor site or gently massage the site to increase perfusion.
Select a different site or remove the artificial fingernails or polish.

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