Pulse oximetry in health office?

[misty_dawn]

My supervisor wants me to do a research project on clinical guidelines based on EBP on using pulse oximetry in the nurses office. We currently do not do pulse ox unless the parent supplies the monitor. Do you do this vital sign, when and using what parameters?

[mc3, ASN, RN]

I have been wanting to use my pulse oximeter, and I brought it in initially when I got the job. I wanted it mainly to gauge where the asthmatic student were at, and to rule out "faking". The District RN told me I couldn't use it because I needed an MD order for it. I accepted her explanation, but that seems silly to me. It's as much a diagnostic tool as a stethescope and BP cuff. Her comment was "well, what would you do if you found a problem?" Well, I'd call the parent or 911 if the neb treatment didn't help, just like any other abnormal finding!

I kinda forgot about it after that. I'm curious though, do you need a Dr's order, or not? I think I may re-visit the issue with her...

mc3 :)

[NutmeggeRN, BSN]

I have been wanting to use my pulse oximeter, and I brought it in initially when I got the job. I wanted it mainly to gauge where the asthmatic student were at, and to rule out "faking". The District RN told me I couldn't use it because I needed an MD order for it. I accepted her explanation, but that seems silly to me. It's as much a diagnostic tool as a stethescope and BP cuff. Her comment was "well, what would you do if you found a problem?" Well, I'd call the parent or 911 if the neb treatment didn't help, just like any other abnormal finding!I kinda forgot about it after that. I'm curious though, do you need a Dr's order, or not? I think I may re-visit the issue with her...mc3 :)

I do not believe you need an order, to keep peace ( and not alienate her) I would re approach and ask if she knows where the rule is, so you can read it to comprehend it more fully. Then if such a rule exists ( Im betting it does not) so be it. If not I would check with your BON for clarification. If it is a rule, might be time to look at getting the rule changed.