1. Continuous pulse oximeter monitoring is not available outside the ICU, Intermediate Care and ED areas (ED, 4E, 6B, PACU, 4A).  Patients who require continuous pulse oximeter monitoring should be transferred to the ICU for closer observation.  Non ICU areas will monitor the patient as ordered by the physician until the transfer has been made.  A physician may use continuous pulse oximeter monitoring on non-ICU units during the performance of a procedure (e.g. Chest tube insertion).  It may also be used to monitor peripheral vascular sufficiency in patients that have had compromise.
2. Patients requiring pulse oximetry in non-ICU areas will be intermittently monitored via a hand held pulse oximeter.
3. Pulse oximetry monitoring requires a physician's order but may be done without an order if the nurse or respiratory care practitioner suspects hypoxemia.

Back to Policy Standards Table of Contents - Addenda
Home