In polysomnography, what is the primary function of the pulse oximeter?

The primary function of the pulse oximeter in polysomnography is to measure the oxygen saturation of the patient’s blood. This is crucial during sleep studies because it provides real-time data on how well oxygen is being delivered to the tissues, which can significantly affect overall health and sleep quality. In patients with sleep apnea or other respiratory issues, monitoring oxygen saturation is vital as it can indicate episodes of hypoxia, where the body is deprived of adequate oxygen. Understanding oxygen levels helps healthcare providers assess the severity of sleep-related disorders and guide treatment options effectively.

While monitoring heart rate, assessing brain activity, and tracking sleep movements are all important aspects of polysomnography, they are not the primary function of the pulse oximeter. Instead, these functions are typically accomplished using other devices and measurements during the sleep study. Hence, the focus of the pulse oximeter remains specifically on oxygen saturation.