Welch Allyn Spot Vital Signs 420 Series Operator's Manual page 14

Normal Temperature Mode
Normal oral mode is the default operating mode for temperature determinations.
In Normal Mode, the Spot Vital Signs measures temperature at discrete intervals, then calculates
the rate of change according to a proven algorithm. This allows the thermometer to predict the
end point the thermistor would reach if it were left in the mouth until it reached mouth
temperature. This predictive feature allows the thermometer to arrive at an accurate oral
temperature reading in approximately 4 seconds.
Operatorselectable patient alarm limits are not available in Normal Mode. However,
temperatures that are outside the operating range of the device are noted on the temperature
display (see "Temperature Measurement Range Indicators" on page 29 for further details).
Monitor Temperature Mode
Continuous Monitor Mode operation is normally used when difficult situations prevent taking
accurate temperatures in the Normal Mode, or in clinical situations in which the clinician is inter-
ested in trending the patient's temperature (see "Temperature Measurement Range Indicators"
on page 29 for further details). Maintain probe contact with the tissue for at least 3 minutes for
accurate oral/rectal temperature measurement, and 5 minutes for accurate axillary temperature
measurement. Monitor Mode temperatures may not match identically to predicted "normal"
temperatures because of ambient temperature influence and other factors. The trend in temper-
ature is the important standard when in Monitor Mode.
Operatorselectable patient alarm limits are not available in Monitor Mode. However,
temperatures that are outside the operating range of the device are noted on the temperature
display (see "Temperature Measurement Range Indicators" on page 29 for further details).
SpO>
The Spot Vital Signs incorporates the Nelicor pulse oximetry system which determines arterial
oxyhemoglobin saturation (Sp05%) by measuring the absorption of red and infrared light passed
through the tissues. Changes in absorption caused by pulsation of blood in the vascular bed are
used to determine arterial saturation and pulse rate.
Oxygen saturation percent is calculated with each pulse detected, so the display is continually
updated. The pulse signal bar graph is an indicator of the strength and quality of the detected
pulses.
The Spot Vital Signs determines pulse rate as an adjunct to blood pressure measurement and
SpO, measurement.
The pulse rate, in beats per minute, is determined primarily from the SpO, measurement
methodology. In the case where SpO, is not available, or is disabled, the pulse rate display is
driven from data collected as part of the blood pressure measurement method.
Removal of the SpO, sensor from the patient initiates an audible beep, to alert you to the fact
that the sensor is no longer attached to the patient.