HomeMy WebLinkAbout318.008 - Pulse OximetreyEffective Date: February 2023 Kevin Reynolds, Fire Captain
Current Revision Date: 07/10/2025 Section 318.008
Next Revision (2) Date: 07/10/2028 Page 1 of 3
Fresno City Fire Department
300 Training and Equipment Manual
SECTION 318.008 PULSE OXIMETRY
PURPOSE
The purpose of this policy is to provide information to Fresno Fire Department
Members (FFD or Department) on the use of Pulse Oximeters.
APPLICATION
This policy covers the use of the ADC Diagnostics 2100 pulse oximeter which is
carried in the EMS bag on engines, trucks, and squads. This device is used to
determine a patient’s blood oxygen saturation (SP02).
OPERATIONAL POLICY
Pulse oximeters are used when providing emergency medical BLS services and shall
be checked for operational status during completion of the weekly equipment check
as defined in Standard Operating Procedures Manual Section 211.001, PSTrax.
OPERATIONAL GUIDELINE
Members may use pulse oximetry when taking vital signs and significant findings
should be reported to EMS personnel.
PROCESS
ADC Diagnostics 2100 pulse oximeters are capable of reading SP02 (0-100%) and
pulse rate (30-235).
1. Step one:
Squeeze the end of the oximeter opposite the power button to open the device
and insert the patient’s finger firmly, ensuring both sensors are covered by the
finger. Middle or index fingers are recommended by the manufacturer.
Effective Date: February 2023 Kevin Reynolds, Fire Captain
Current Revision Date: 07/10/2025 Section 318.008
Next Revision (2) Date: 07/10/2028 Page 2 of 3
2. Step two:
Press the power button to turn the device on. Readings are most accurate if
the patient holds still. The device will display results for pulse and SP02 after
four (4) seconds.
3. Step three:
Remove patient’s finger and the device should power off after ten seconds of
inactivity.
INFORMATION
FFD pulse oximeters are protected by an orange rubber cover and come with a
lanyard. The orange cover obscures the power button on the device. The device runs
on two triple AAA batteries that can be ordered through supply. The manufacturer
recommends cleaning the device with a damp cloth and 70% rubbing alcohol after
each use.
It may be difficult to obtain an accurate reading on patients with false fingernails or
painted fingernails. Cold hands or environments are also known to make readings
inaccurate. Excessive patient movement or hypotension can alter readings. For these
reasons, it is still important to check a patient’s pulse manually.
(Figure 1)
Effective Date: February 2023 Kevin Reynolds, Fire Captain
Current Revision Date: 07/10/2025 Section 318.008
Next Revision (2) Date: 07/10/2028 Page 3 of 3
DEFINITIONS
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CROSS-REFERENCES
Standard Operating Procedures Manual Section 211.001, PSTrax.
Pulse Oximeter User's Manual