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DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.21088/ijem.2395.311X.3117.6

Abstract

Introduction: Pulse oximetry is a simple, non-invasive, continuous, bedside method of measuring blood oxygen saturation of patients in emergency departments. The accuracy of measurement in patient have been questioned due to its limitations when henna is applied in previous studies. Objective: Our study was done to determine whether pulse oximeter showed appropriate readings when henna has been applied. Material and Methods:100 normal healthy individuals with ages between 20 & 40 years of both sexes were included into the study. In all participants red and black henna was applied to right thumb and index finger, this was the test finger.Uncoloured left thumb was used as control. Oxygen saturation was measured in all participants, both in day or night and at constant room temperature. Arterial blood gas analysis was also done on each individual to see the accuracy of pulse oximeter with partial pressure oxygen. Results: Red henna causes statistically significant difference as it showed there is mild change in reading of oxygen saturation to that of control finger whereas black henna when applied caused potential error in all pulse oximetry reading.Conclusions:Red henna is not likely to drastically change the accuracy of oxygen saturation measured by pulse oximeter whereas black henna does not show any reading.

Keywords : Henna; Pulse Oximetry.  

Corresponding Author : Indraneel Dasgupta, Clinical Director and Head, Department of Emergency Medicine, The Institute of Emergency and Trauma care, Peerless Hospital & B.K. Roy Research Center, 360 Panchasayar, Kolkata - 700094, West Bengal.