Abstract
Introduction:
This research compares values of 2 pulse oximeters (the BCI-Autocorr ear clip and the NONIN-ONYXII 9550 finger clip) with SaO2 (saturation in the arterial bloodgas, the gold standard) in resting and in maximal exercise. Both manufacturers claim a precision within 2 digits, BCI within 3 during motion.
Hypothesis:
There’s no significant difference between a saturation measured by an ear clip or finger clip and SaO2 at rest and at max. exercise.
Methods:
21 patients (6 female), mean age = 74, (46-83 yr.)were referred by the pulmonologist for a cardio pulmonary exercise test with arterial bloodgas sampling based on dyspnea eci.
At rest and max. exercise arterial bloodsamples were taken to measure SaO2 (by Siemens Rapidlab 1265), at the same moment values from ear clip and finger clip were noted. Data were analyzed by paired t-test. P-values < 0.05 were considered significant.
Results:
Mean (SD) SaO2 was 96.6% (1.5) at rest, and 94.9% (4.7) at max. exercise, measured by bloodgas.
See table for results.
Conclusion:
There is no significant difference between (BCI Autocorr) ear clip and SaO2 in exercise, but there is in resting.
There is no significant difference between (NONIN) finger clip and SaO2 in resting, but there is in exercise.
Discussion:
As we continue gathering data, we hope to publish also on a desaturating population eg COPD. The effect of exercise on the physiology of fingertip and earlobe should also be considered.
- © 2013 ERS