What is NOT a primary use of pulse oximetry?

Pulse oximetry is a non-invasive method used to measure the oxygen saturation of a patient's blood. Its primary applications include the detection of hypoxaemia, which allows healthcare providers to identify when a patient is experiencing low levels of oxygen in the blood. Additionally, pulse oximetry is essential for targeting oxygen therapy, as it provides real-time data on a patient's oxygen needs, allowing for accurate adjustments in treatment. Routine monitoring is also an important aspect, particularly during surgical procedures or in patients with chronic respiratory conditions, to continuously assess oxygen levels.

The choice related to high blood pressure is not relevant to pulse oximetry. While blood oxygen levels can indirectly affect cardiovascular function, pulse oximetry does not measure blood pressure or diagnose hypertension. It focuses solely on the oxygenation status of the blood, making it clear that this use is beyond its intended scope.