User Manual Part 7

Viewing real-time patient data
2001989-301A- draft 1 ApexPro™ 7-27
Procedures or devices previously applied in your facility for SpO2 monitoring should
be used in the event that the SpO2 value from the equipment cannot be validated by
the above criteria.
CAUTION
Do not use the Apex oximeter on neonatal patients. It is not designed
for use on neonates.
Signal and data validity
It is extremely important to determine that the probe is attached to the patient
correctly and the data is verifiable. To make this determination, the signal strength
indicators on the Apex oximeter and the CIC Pro center are of assistance.
Signal strength indicator
A signal strength (perfusion) indicator is displayed on the Apex oximeter display and
at the CIC Pro center in the appropriate patient window.
On the Apex oximeter, this indicator is a perfusion LED that blinks with each SpO2
pulse detected. The LED blinks green for each acceptable strength pulse. It blinks
yellow for SpO2 signals of marginal quality, and blinks red when the SpO2 signal is
too weak or the quality is very poor. When the perfusion LED blinks red, the numeric
data displayed on the Apex oximeter will be replaced by dashes within 10 seconds.
At the CIC Pro center, the signal strength indicator consists of 0, 1, 2, or 3 (strongest)
asterisks, depending on the strength of the signal.
Proper environmental conditions and probe attachment help ensure a strong signal.
WARNING
In the monitoring of patients the coincidence of adverse conditions
may lead to a disturbed signal going unnoticed. In this situation
artifacts are capable of simulating a plausible parameter reading, so
that the monitor fails to sound an alarm. In order to ensure reliable
patient monitoring, the proper application of the probe and the signal
quality must be checked at regular intervals.
Error messages
If the probe is not correctly attached to the patient and data is not verifiable, one of the
following error messages may appear in the patient’s bed window at the CIC Pro
center:
 SPO2 PROBE OFF
 SPO2 PROBE
If either of the above messages appears, check the position of the probe or replace the
probe. If the problem persists, call GE Service or contact your sales/service
representative.
Draft