Which of the following is NOT an appropriate intervention to ensure the accuracy of a pulse oximeter reading?

When measuring pulse oximetry, ensuring an accurate reading is crucial, and the interventions chosen must support accurate sensor function and stable readings. The correct choice here involves the action of asking the client to frequently flex the wrist for better circulation, which is not appropriate.

Frequent wrist flexing can lead to movement of the sensor or increased extraneous motion, which may interfere with the pulse oximeter's ability to provide a stable and accurate measurement. Motion can cause artifact, which affects the accuracy of the readings since the sensor relies on consistent blood flow and motion detection to assess oxygen saturation levels accurately.

In contrast, immobilizing the monitoring site helps stabilize the sensor for more consistent readings. Covering the sensor with a towel is generally inappropriate as it can obstruct light transmission, which is critical for the accuracy of pulse oximeter readings. Comparing the pulse rate indicated by the oximeter to the radial pulse periodically ensures that the heart rate is being accurately monitored, supporting the validity of the oximeter's readings. All these interventions align with the objective of enhancing the reliability of the pulse oximeter, while wrist flexing does not.