The caregiver of an infant keeps removing the pulse oximetry sensor claiming it is too tight and hurting the baby. Which response should the nurse prioritize in addressing this situation?
Explanation & Rationale
Choice A reason: Placing the probe on the chest is not a standard pulse oximetry site and gives inaccurate readings. Explaining the device’s purpose addresses the caregiver’s concern, making this ineffective and incorrect compared to educating about the sensor’s role in monitoring the infant’s oxygen levels. Choice B reason: Pulse oximetry measures oxygen saturation, not respiratory retractions, which are observed visually. Clarifying its purpose reassures the caregiver, making this inaccurate and incorrect compared to explaining the device’s function to address concerns about the sensor’s use on the infant. Choice C reason: Explaining that pulse oximetry measures oxygen saturation clarifies its importance, reassuring the caregiver about its necessity and addressing tightness concerns. This aligns with pediatric nursing education principles, making it the prioritized response to ensure compliance with monitoring the infant’s respiratory status. Choice D reason: Checking the probe site every 8 hours prevents skin issues but doesn’t address the caregiver’s concern about tightness. Explaining the device’s purpose promotes understanding, making this secondary and incorrect compared to educating to maintain the sensor’s use on the infant.