Probe ageing effects and performance [pulse oximetry]

The range of effects produced by probe ageing is still unclear. Increased susceptibility to error messages with digit size and voluntary movement in “end of life” probes on normal volunteers have been demonstrated. This would support the need to replace probes at an appropriate performance level. Whether the possibility of the oximeter producing erroneous results in a range of known adverse conditions including low SaO₂, poor perfusion, ambient light and movement is yet to be determined