What tools are used for monitoring the patient’s oxygenation levels during surgery?

• A. Blood pressure cuffs
• B. Electrocardiogram machines
• C. Pulse oximeters
• D. Thermometers

Answer: (C)

Pulse oximeters are specifically designed to monitor a patient's oxygenation levels, providing real-time data about the oxygen saturation of hemoglobin in the blood. This non-invasive tool uses light absorption through the skin, typically on a fingertip or earlobe, to measure oxygen saturation levels as a percentage. Maintaining oxygenation during surgery is critical, as adequate oxygen delivery is vital for organ function and overall patient safety.

The use of pulse oximeters allows surgical teams to quickly detect any issues with a patient’s oxygen levels and respond appropriately, making it an essential tool in perioperative care. In contrast, blood pressure cuffs and electrocardiogram machines serve different monitoring purposes—blood pressure cuffs measure arterial blood pressure, while electrocardiogram machines monitor heart rhythm and electrical activity of the heart. Thermometers, on the other hand, are utilized to monitor body temperature, which, while important, is not directly related to oxygenation levels. Thus, pulse oximeters are the best choice for assessing a patient's oxygenation during surgical procedures.