Measuring Blood Oxygen Levels and Respiration

Flashcards testing concepts of blood oxygen measurement using pulse oximeters, oxyhaemoglobin, low blood oxygen symptoms, and respiratory diffusion.

What is the primary function of a pulse oximeter?

To measure the oxygen concentration level in the blood.

Which two types of light are used by a pulse oximeter to measure blood oxygen levels?

Red light and infrared light.

What does the percentage reading on an oximeter display represent?

The oxygen saturation level or concentration percentage in the blood.

How does the colour of a red blood cell containing oxyhaemoglobin differ from one containing haemoglobin?

A red blood cell with oxyhaemoglobin is bright red, whereas a red blood cell with haemoglobin alone is darker red or purplish.

What are common symptoms of a low blood oxygen percentage?

Shortness of breath, fatigue, dizziness, confusion, and chest tightness.

What intervention might medical professionals use to help increase a patient's low blood oxygen percentage?

Administering supplemental oxygen therapy using an oxygen mask or nasal cannula.

How does diffusion facilitate the transfer of oxygen into the blood during oxygen therapy?

Increasing the oxygen concentration in the lungs creates a steeper concentration gradient, causing oxygen to diffuse more rapidly into the bloodstream.

What two processes comprise the mechanical movement of air in the respiratory system studied in this unit?

Inhalation and exhalation.