Certified Medical Assistant (CMA AAMA)Clinical Workflow and Patient IntakeMedium
A medical assistant is preparing to obtain a pulse oximetry reading on a patient who has nail polish on her fingers and cold hands. What should the medical assistant do to ensure an accurate reading?
- AWarm the fingers only, since nail polish has no effect
- BProceed as usual since nail polish does not affect readings
- CDocument the reading with a note that it may be inaccurate
- DRemove nail polish or use an alternate site such as the earlobe
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. Remove nail polish or use an alternate site such as the earlobe
Dark nail polish can interfere with light absorption in pulse oximetry sensors, and cold extremities reduce peripheral perfusion, both leading to inaccurate readings. Removing polish or using an alternate site such as the earlobe helps ensure accuracy.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Incorrect; nail polish does affect readings and should also be addressed.
- B. Incorrect; nail polish, especially dark colors, can interfere with sensor readings.
- C. Incorrect; the assistant should correct the issue rather than simply document a potential inaccuracy.
Pulse Oximetry Accuracy Factors
Pulse oximetry readings can be affected by nail polish, poor peripheral perfusion (cold extremities), and motion artifact, all of which should be addressed before recording results.
- Dark nail polish can block light transmission
- Cold or poor perfusion reduces signal accuracy
- Alternate sites include earlobe or forehead
Memory trick: Polish and cold fool the probe