Compare the heart rate reading on the unit to a palpable Pulse AND the reading on the cardiac monitor (if attached) to ensure accuracy.

It may be necessary to swap fingers on occasion to ensure accuracy.

False readings may occur with:

• Excess ambient light
• Abnormal haemoglobins, (e.g. carbon monoxide poisoning, anaemia)
• Hypotension (poor peripheral perfusion)
• Hypothermia (poor peripheral perfusion)
• Nail polish, nicotine staining and dirt.
• Using the same arm simultaneously with blood pressure monitoring