The Effect of Pulse Oximeter Probe Replacement Interval on Pressure Injury Development in Intensive Care Patients

Overview

Patients admitted to intensive care units (ICUs) are at increased risk of medical device-related pressure injuries (MDRPIs) due to the prolonged use of monitoring devices. Pulse oximeter probes are routinely used for continuous monitoring of oxygen saturation and pulse rate and may contribute to pressure injury development when left in the same position for extended periods . Current international guidelines recommend regular assessment of the skin and repositioning of medical devices but do not specify an optimal repositioning interval. This randomized controlled trial aims to evaluate the effect of different pulse oximeter probe replacement intervals on the development of pressure injuries in adult ICU patients. The findings are expected to provide evidence to guide clinical practice and improve the prevention of medical device-related pressure injuries.

Pulse oximetry is a non-invasive monitoring method that continuously measures arterial oxygen saturation (SpO₂) and pulse rate using optical sensors placed on peripheral tissues. It is widely used in intensive care units (ICUs), operating rooms, and other critical care settings for continuous patient monitoring . Although essential for patient care, prolonged application of pulse oximeter probes to the same anatomical site may increase the risk of medical device-related pressure injuries (MDRPIs), particularly in critically ill patients with impaired tissue perfusion, immobility, and fragile skin. Medical device-related pressure injuries represent a substantial proportion of hospital-acquired pressure injuries and are associated with increased morbidity, prolonged hospitalization, and healthcare costs. International clinical practice guidelines recommend frequent skin assessment, regular repositioning of medical devices, prompt removal of unnecessary devices, and interventions to reduce pressure. However, these guidelines do not define an evidence-based interval for repositioning pulse oximeter probes, and current clinical practice varies considerably among healthcare institutions. Several case reports have described tissue injury associated with prolonged pulse oximeter sensor application, including skin erosion and tissue necrosis at the finger, toe, ear, and forehead. Nevertheless, high-quality randomized controlled trials evaluating the optimal pulse oximeter probe replacement interval are lacking. The primary objective of this randomized controlled trial is to determine whether different pulse oximeter probe replacement intervals influence the incidence of pressure injuries in adult ICU patients. The findings are expected to provide evidence for establishing standardized clinical protocols for pulse oximeter probe repositioning and contribute to the prevention of medical device-related pressure injuries in critically ill adults.