Case Studies

PM Pediatrics Chooses Nonin Medical as Pulse Oximetry Solution

Dawn Richy, RN, BSN, Director of Clinical Operations, PM Pediatrics

INTRODUCTION

PM Pediatrics is an award winning pediatric urgent care provider staffed by Pediatric Emergency Specialists trained in treating newborn through college-age patients in urgent situations while minimizing pain and unnecessary tests. Based in Lake Success, NY, with 19 locations throughout New York, New Jersey and Maryland, our mission is to ensure that patients receive superior quality healthcare when they need it.

PM Pediatrics treats a broad array of illness and injuries from fever, infections and abdominal pain to fractures and wounds requiring stitches and more. We also treat patients with more acute illnesses, including asthma exacerbations, infants with bronchiolitis, children with croup and audible stridor, dehydration and those in need of a septic work up. Above all, our team is committed to the highest quality of care, while providing comfort and convenience to patients and families.

THE IMPORTANCE OF PULSE OXIMETRY AT PM PEDIATRICS

At PM Pediatrics, we use pulse oximetry as an essential tool, in conjunction with a physical assessment, to help determine a patient’s respiratory status. In young children, the use of pulse oximetry is critical in assessing how ill a child may be. PM Pediatrics uses both handheld pulse oximeters and portable oximeters as part of our rolling vital signs cart.

WHY PM PEDIATRICS CHOSE NONIN MEDICAL TECHNOLOGY

After using pulse oximeter sensors from different manufacturers, we were dissatisfied with their performance. They were unable to quickly and accurately capture a reading consistently in patients. We require a sensor that works with the smallest of infants and children, is cleanable for reuse, has user-friendly tape and most importantly, will read quickly and accurately in unpredictable patient situations. Our distributor suggested we try Nonin Medical pulse oximeters. A Nonin Medical sales representative allowed PM Pediatrics to trial a unit with multiple sensor options. PM Pediatrics chose the Nonin 8000SS Small Soft Sensor and the Nonin 8008J Infant Flex Sensors and Disposable Wraps.

We found that Nonin Medical pulse oximeter and sensors work better than the competitor’s we had been using. They are able to get a quick and accurate reading on infants and children, in distress, regardless of their small size, and with low perfusion or constant motion. We have seen several babies present with severe respiratory distress and Nonin Medical’s pulse oximeter effectively captured a reading while the child was squirming or crying, helping to steer the intervention during respiratory compromise.

Additionally, the training and implementation process with Nonin Medical was turn-key for our staff. A sales representative gave a quick demonstration with useful handouts on proper use and handling. Our team had no difficulty transitioning to the Nonin Medical brand of pulse oximetry. Due to our positive experience with Nonin Medical, I have already recommended the Nonin Medical oximetry products to my colleagues both within and outside of PM Pediatrics. For new practices, we are also considering updating our Welch Allyn monitors with Nonin SpO2.

CONCLUSION

Careful consideration must be given when choosing a pulse oximetry solution in a pediatric setting. Patient conditions can be unpredictable, requiring a reliable pulse oximeter that performs consistently, with clinically proven accuracy. Infants and young children require easy-toapply sensors that are small enough to fit properly, can be repositioned and also stay in place. Regardless of whether a child is moving, has low perfusion or dark skin tone, a pulse oximeter must get an accurate reading as quickly as possible. Nonin Medical’s complete pulse oximetry solutions provide accuracy in the widest range of patients and conditions.

For pediatric practices considering the use of pulse oximetry, PM Pediatrics recommends patience as a tip to getting a reading on a pediatric patient. Even with exceptional technology, getting a reading can still be challenging. Demonstrating to a child how the oximeter is used, along with a little bit of distraction, are the keys to getting an accurate reading.