Oxygenation in Paediatrics Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Oxygenation in Paediatrics - Essay Example This is a simple visual inspection and involves checking for signs of reducing cyanosis on the tongue and extremities such as the palms and soles of the feet. This method is simple and easy to implement. However, differences in skin color and inability of the health professional to discern color change significantly limit this method. For instance, in blacks, cyanosis cannot be easily observed and may sometimes go unnoticed until it is too late. To solve this limitation, equipment are usually used. The most common of the instruments is the pulse oximeter. This is a device that is attached to the patient’s finger and measures the actual oxygen content in the blood. It, therefore, monitors the extent and effectiveness of oxygenation (Sinha 2012, p. 312). The main limitation of the equipment monitoring is that some people may read and interpret the readings wrongly leading to undue panic or preventing timely action. In addition, the connection of the equipment may vary the readin gs. There are various methods of oxygen administration in infants. These methods are selected depending on the availability of the equipment and hence affordability, as well as preference and infants condition. The methods are divided into invasive and non-invasive methods. The invasive methods make use of a tracheal tube and are recommended for infants with severe breathing conditions. The non-invasive methods include headbox oxygen administration which measures the oxygen concentration before entry into the respiratory system. Other methods include facemasks that assist in concentrating the oxygen being delivered around the nose. Both the headbox and facemasks pose a danger of carbon dioxide accumulation with increased expiration. Nasal prongs, nasal catheters and the nasopharyngeal catheters are also used to deliver oxygen to the lower