Physician requirements for pulse oximeters in extended clinical scenarios

The purpose of the research was to identify the requirements of medical professionals regarding the functionality of portable pulse oximeters in the context of expanding clinical application scenarios, including the implementation of additional diagnostic parameters (primarily respiratory rate), integration with wireless data transmission modules for remote/telemedicine patient monitoring, and the determination of priority areas for device modernization, taking into account the needs of outpatient care, inpatient settings, and long-term monitoring of patients with chronic diseases. Methods. An expert survey was conducted in the form of interviews with 90 highly qualified medical specialists (predominantly cardiologists and internists; more than 60% held advanced academic degrees). Participants evaluated the devices they used in terms of functionality, convenience in daily practice, and data exchange capabilities, and also provided suggestions for device modernization. Results. A dominant expert opinion was identified regarding the insufficient functionality of standard devices. A strong demand for a transition to multiparameter monitoring was revealed: the absolute majority of respondents confirmed the critical importance of measuring respiratory rate and the mandatory presence of wireless communication interfaces. Upgraded devices were considered most востребованными in telemedicine scenarios and in long-term monitoring of patients with chronic conditions, while maintaining the familiar “fingertip” form factor and providing clearer data visualization. Conclusion. A significant gap was identified between the capabilities of widely used pulse oximeters and the needs of clinical practice. According to experts, the device should evolve from a point saturation measurement tool into a more intelligent cardiorespiratory monitoring instrument suitable for integration into remote healthcare systems.