Which of the following factors make using a pulse oximeter on an elder

Which of the following factors make using a pulse oximeter on an elderly client challenging? (Select all that apply.)

1. Possibility of decreased cardiac output
2. Potential for peripheral vascular disease
3. Existence of decreased red blood cell count
4. Uncooperative behavior related to senility
5. Inability to comprehend rationale for monitoring
6. Vasoconstriction related to impaired heat regulation

ANSWER

ANS: 1, 2, 3, 6
Identifying an acceptable pulse oximeter probe site is difficult with older adults because of the likelihood of peripheral vascular disease, decreased cardiac output, cold-induced vasocon-striction, and anemia. It would be inappropriate to assume that the process is made more difficult because of the remaining options because they are not seen in the majority of the elderly popula-tion.