BP and Pulse Oximetry

Pulse Oximetry

A method to measure pulse rate and oxygen saturation in the blood.

Saturation of Oxygen (SaO2)

The percentage of oxygen in the blood; normal levels are typically between 95% and 100%.

Tachycardia

A condition where the pulse rate exceeds 100 beats per minute.

Bradycardia

A condition where the pulse rate is below 60 beats per minute.

Sympathetic Nervous System

The part of the autonomic nervous system that increases heart rate and blood pressure during stress or excitement.

Mitral Valve

The valve that allows blood to flow from the left atrium to the left ventricle.

Tricuspid Valve

The valve between the right atrium and the right ventricle.

Atrial Septal Defect

A congenital heart defect characterized by a hole in the septum that separates the right and left atria.

Pacemaker of the Heart

The sinoatrial (SA) node, responsible for initiating the heartbeat.

Blood Pressure

The force of circulating blood on the walls of blood vessels; normal levels are typically around 120/80 mmHg.

White Coat Syndrome

A condition where a patient experiences elevated blood pressure due to anxiety in a medical setting.

Capillary Pulsation

The movement of blood through capillaries that can be detected by sensors during pulse oximetry.

EKG

Electrocardiogram; a test that records the electrical activity of the heart.

Myocardial Infarction

A medical emergency commonly known as a heart attack; characterized by damage to heart tissue due to lack of blood flow.

Blood Vessel Types

Veins carry blood to the heart; arteries carry blood away from the heart.

Diastolic Pressure

The pressure in the arteries when the heart is at rest between beats.

Systolic Pressure

The pressure in the arteries during the contraction of the heart.