Which of the following can affect a pulse oximeter reading?

Hypothermia can significantly affect a pulse oximeter reading because low body temperatures can lead to vasoconstriction, which reduces peripheral blood flow. When the blood flow is impaired, the pulse oximeter may struggle to obtain an accurate reading as it relies on detecting the concentration of oxyhemoglobin in the capillaries. In hypothermic conditions, the decreased perfusion may lead to misleading results, showing either a lower than actual oxygen saturation or even failing to register a reading altogether.

While other factors like low blood pressure, jaundice, and latex allergies can have clinical significance, they do not directly impact the functionality of the pulse oximeter in the way that hypothermia does. For instance, low blood pressure may indicate poor circulation as well, but pulse oximeters can still function under a wider range of blood pressure conditions. Jaundice can cause variations in skin pigmentation but typically does not affect the accuracy of oxygen saturation readings significantly. Allergies to latex are more related to patient safety and do not interfere with the measuring capabilities of the oximeter itself.