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Monitors designed for continuous measurement and display of the percent saturation of hemoglobin in arterial blood (SpO2) taken from a distant location through a point-to-point radio or other appropriate communication link (i.e., telemetric). The monitors usually determine the relative amount of oxygenated and deoxygenated hemoglobin (O2Hb and HHb, respectively) by measuring light absorbance changes resulting from arterial blood flow pulsations. These monitors consist of a small main electronic unit that is worn by the patient (e.g., placed around the wrist, carried in a pouch) that includes electronic circuits, red and infrared light sources (typically light emitting diodes [LEDs]), photodetectors, sensors typically placed on a finger, and a radio transmitter. The monitor also includes a receiver that is integral or associated to the central station where the information is displayed. The monitor may include audible and/or visual alarms that are triggered when the patient\'s SpO2 drops below preset limits. Telemetric pulse oximetry monitors are used for monitoring of adults and/or pediatric patients in non-critical care areas of healthcare facilities; they may be also used for routine evaluations during short periods of time.
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