Are There Limitations to Pulse Oximetry in Cancer Patients?
While pulse oximetry is a valuable tool, it has limitations:
Accuracy Issues: Factors like poor peripheral perfusion, skin pigmentation, and nail polish can affect accuracy. Not Diagnostic: It does not diagnose the underlying cause of hypoxemia; it merely indicates its presence. False Readings: Conditions such as carbon monoxide poisoning can give falsely elevated readings.
