What factor can cause a falsely high O2 reading and falsely low CO2 reading due to poor application?

What factor can cause a falsely high O2 reading and falsely low CO2 reading due to poor application?

• A. A trapped air bubble in the contact interface
• B. Lack of contact gel
• C. Frequent recalibration
• D. The patient moved and dislodged the sensor

Answer: (A)

Bubbles in the sensor interface disrupt the gas sample reaching the detector. A trapped air pocket introduces ambient room air into the sampling path, which has about 21% O2 and almost no CO2. As a result, the sensor reads a higher O2 level than the patient actually has and a lower CO2 level, creating the appearance of falsely high O2 and falsely low CO2. This happens when the interface isn’t applied cleanly, allowing bubbles to form or linger in the contact/interface area. To prevent it, ensure proper priming and secure, bubble-free contact between the sensor, gel, and skin, and check for any air pockets in the sampling pathway.

Bubbles in the sensor interface disrupt the gas sample reaching the detector. A trapped air pocket introduces ambient room air into the sampling path, which has about 21% O2 and almost no CO2. As a result, the sensor reads a higher O2 level than the patient actually has and a lower CO2 level, creating the appearance of falsely high O2 and falsely low CO2. This happens when the interface isn’t applied cleanly, allowing bubbles to form or linger in the contact/interface area. To prevent it, ensure proper priming and secure, bubble-free contact between the sensor, gel, and skin, and check for any air pockets in the sampling pathway.