An update on pulse oximetry. Part II: limitations and future applications.

The pulse oximeter can be used in all clinical situations in which the patient is at risk for hypoxemia. Now standard in the operating room, pulse oximetry is beginning to be used in prehospital transport, emergency department, postanesthesia recovery room, intensive care unit, endoscopy and catheterization suites, and delivery room, as well as for ambulatory monitoring and preoperative screening. The pulse oximeter is an invaluable monitor for the anesthesiologist and may allow better health care delivery to the patient, especially when combined with capnography and mixed venous oximetry. This article presents an update on its limitations and future applications.