Which of the following is considered a non-invasive method of monitoring a patient’s oxygenation level?

Pulse oximetry is recognized as a non-invasive method for monitoring a patient’s oxygenation level. It operates by using light absorption principles to assess the saturation of hemoglobin in the blood, providing an immediate and continuous estimation of oxygen levels. This method is preferred in many clinical environments because it is easy to use, requires minimal patient intervention, and offers quick results. Patients remain comfortable during the monitoring, as it typically involves placing a small sensor on a fingertip or earlobe.

In contrast, arterial blood gas analysis involves an invasive procedure where a blood sample is drawn from an artery, typically the radial artery, to measure oxygen and carbon dioxide levels and the pH of the blood. This method, while highly accurate, is not non-invasive.

Capnography monitors the concentration of carbon dioxide in exhaled air and does not directly assess oxygenation levels, focusing instead on ventilation status.

A chest X-ray is a radiological examination that provides images of the lungs and heart but does not specifically measure oxygenation levels.

Thus, pulse oximetry stands out as the non-invasive option among the alternatives presented.