Fun fact about pulse oximeters: in California EMTs are regulated so strictly that it is illegal for them to use a pulse oximeter as it is deemed "invasive". So if anyone is experiencing a medical emergency that could successfully be delayed following the algorithm involving checking blood O2, they better hope the EMT is experienced/lucky enough to suspect low O2 or that there's a paramedic or nurse on board. It's definitely one of those laws that aren't really enforced but it's weird that in California EMTs have to break the law to do basic screening.
Citation please? Page two of LA County Health Services's "EMT Scope of Practice" document lists pulse oximetry as part of the basic diagnostic process for EMTs. This would seem curious if state regulations forbid that.
This is a very weird law. In NM, basic EMTs can use a pulse/ox, insert blind airways, inject narcan and epinephrine, administer nitroglycerine, attach an ECG monitor, and do half a dozen other things more invasive than a pulse/ox.
