What does continuous pulse oximetry specifically measure during anesthesia?

Continuous pulse oximetry specifically measures the oxygen saturation in the blood, which is a crucial parameter during anesthesia. This monitoring technique uses light wavelengths to assess the absorption characteristics of oxygenated and deoxygenated hemoglobin in the blood. By emitting light from a sensor placed on the skin, it can determine the percentage of hemoglobin that is saturated with oxygen, providing real-time feedback on a patient’s respiratory status.

During anesthesia, it is vital to ensure that a patient maintains adequate oxygenation, as fluctuations could indicate hypoxemia or respiratory complications. Thus, the ability of pulse oximetry to continuously monitor oxygen saturation allows healthcare providers to make immediate interventions if the saturation levels drop below acceptable ranges, which is critical in maintaining patient safety.

While blood pressure levels, heart rate variability, and carbon dioxide levels are also important parameters during anesthesia care, they are measured by different monitors and are not the function of pulse oximetry.