Which of the following situations may result in a false pulse oximetry reading?

A false pulse oximetry reading can often be attributed to situations that impair blood flow or alter the characteristics of oxygenated hemoglobin in the peripheral tissues. Poor peripheral perfusion is a significant contributor to inaccurate readings because when blood flow is diminished, the sensors may not receive sufficient or consistent blood samples to provide an accurate measurement of oxygen saturation. Conditions such as shock, severe hypotension, or cold exposure can lead to vasoconstriction and reduced blood flow to the extremities, where pulse oximetry is typically applied.

When peripheral perfusion is compromised, the amount of arterial blood reaching the site of the sensor may be insufficient for an accurate measurement, making it challenging for the device to distinguish between oxygenated and deoxygenated hemoglobin correctly. This results in both false lows and false highs in oxygen saturation readings, which can significantly affect patient care and decision-making.

The other situations listed, while they can impact readings, do not have as direct or pronounced an effect as poor peripheral perfusion. For example, hyperthermia can increase metabolic rates and alter oxygen consumption, low light conditions might interfere with sensor function, and exposure to carbon dioxide can affect gas exchange; however, these factors typically do not create the same level of immediate interference