What should a nurse monitor before using a pulse oximeter probe?

Monitoring capillary refill and proximal pulses before using a pulse oximeter probe is crucial because these assessments provide valuable information about peripheral circulation and tissue perfusion. The pulse oximeter works by shining light through the skin to assess the arterial blood's oxygen saturation; therefore, adequate blood flow to the extremities is necessary for an accurate reading.

If capillary refill is delayed or proximal pulses are weak, it may indicate compromised circulation, affecting the pulse oximeter’s ability to obtain a precise measurement. Poor perfusion can lead to falsely low oxygen saturation readings. Thus, ensuring good blood flow to the area where the probe will be applied is essential for reliable results.

In contrast, while urine output, body temperature, and heart rate are important vital signs and indicators of a patient’s overall health, they do not specifically relate to the likelihood of obtaining an accurate oxygen saturation measurement with a pulse oximeter. Monitoring peripheral circulation directly supports the effective use of the device and helps ensure the accuracy of the readings obtained.