A finger pulse oximeter is a small medical device that measures the oxygen saturation of a patient's blood.Some can calculate the heart rate.A light is emitted from the index finger that is used to measure the saturation of hemoglobin in the blood.These can be used at the doctor's office or hospital to assess vital signs, but there are commercially available models for use at home.Keep in mind the following tips when buying one of these instruments.
Step 1: Don't make a purchase without consulting your doctor.
You can either do this first or wait.Before you make a final purchase, make sure to consult with your doctor.He can suggest an oximeter that will work best for you.Determine what your goals are for using a pulse oximeter while you consult with your doctor.Your intended use for the oximeter will help you pick one.A small clip-on oximeter will work if you only want to check your oxygen levels occasionally.A model capable of constant use is needed if you have a chronic illness.If the doctor wants to measure your heart rate, he might want you to get an oximeter.You can narrow down your needs by talking with your doctor.
Step 2: There are different types of oximeters.
The level of oxygen saturation in the blood is the basic function of pulse oximeters.All of the types have advantages and drawbacks.There is a possibility that this is not the case.Most of the time, this version is used at home.It is clipped to the finger.The probe has a display screen on it.The type is usually battery operated.It can be used to spot check oxygen saturation..This is mostly used by hospitals since it gives more accurate readings.The probe is connected to the screen.The probe must be attached to the person's finger in order to get a reading.This type of oximeter can also be used for oxygen saturation monitoring.It is usually used in hospitals, ambulatory health settings, and home..A handheld pulse oximeter is usually smaller than this model.Spot checks and continuous monitoring are possible.It is ideal for hospitals, medical facilities, home care and subacute settings..The model is usually used for continuous monitoring.This model is ideal for your doctor to monitor your oxygen levels while you sleep.This instrument has a design similar to a wristwatch.A small wire connects the probe to a small monitor on the wrist.This wrist monitor will show the readings..You need to look for a brand that specifically indicates for children if you want to assess the oxygen saturation for them.Children's pulse oximeters are designed to fit on small fingers.If your child's fingers are small, there are varieties that can be attached to the foot or head.
Step 3: You can learn different features of pulse oximeters.
A variety of different features can be found in oximeters.Keep this in mind as you gather information to make a decision.There are levels of accuracy.There is a light that indicates whether there is interference or inaccurate reading.If your device is malfunctioning, this will help you determine if your oxygen levels are low.There were alarms.Users of low oxygen saturation would be sounded out by certain pulse oximeters.This is helpful for people who are not familiar with the normal range of oxygen saturation and heart rate.It is possible to read the displayed measurements.There is a difference in the size and color of the screen.Pick a display that is easy to read.Durability and battery life.How durable a machine will be depends on how you intend to use it.You don't need a rugged machine if it's just for personal use.If you only need intermittent oxygen readings, you don't need a long battery life.You wouldn't have to replace batteries often.
Step 4: You should check the size of the probe on your oximeter.
Most probes come in a range of sizes, which can fit most adult fingers.If your fingers are large or small, you only need to look for another option.You should be able to see the probe around your finger.The probe is too small if your finger bulges out.A store employee should be consulted for a larger size.If you're ordering online, measure your finger from the top of the nail to the bottom of a pad on the tip.To find your finger measurement, use this measurement.
Step 5: If you want a good return policy, buy a pulse oximeter.
The oximeter should be tested by your doctor after you purchase it.If it proves to be incorrect, you will want to return it and get a more accurate one.
Step 6: Your doctor can help you test the pulse oximeter.
You will need to check the oximeter for accuracy.Various defects can make oximeters vary in accuracy.Take it to your doctor's office.Take the readings from his pulse oximeter and compare them to yours.The oximeter is in good working order if they are the same.Return it and get another one if you don't like it.
Step 7: You need to wash your hands.
Since a pulse oximeter works by shining light through the skin, dirt can interfere and lead to inaccurate readings.If the clip is contaminated, you can get an infectious disease.Before you place the clip on your finger, make sure your hands are clean.Follow the rules from the CDC to wash your hands.Before using the oximeter, make sure your hands are dry.
Step 8: You need to remove nail polish from your finger.
The oximeter emits light which will make it difficult for the reader to detect hemoglobin.You will get a reading that is incorrect.You want to make sure the oximeter is free of nail polish.If there is no time to remove the polish, you can place the clip sideways to avoid as much polish as possible.
Step 9: When the oximeter is in use, don't expose it to bright light.
Bright lights can interfere with the oximeter's ability to detect hemoglobin.Turn the bright lights away from the oximeter while it's in use.
Step 10: The oximeter is working.
The movement is the most common cause of inaccurate readings.While the oximeter is reading, stay still.You can use the oximeter while exercising to monitor your oxygen saturation, but stay still while the reading is being taken.
Step 11: Make sure you keep your hands warm.
There is probably not enough blood in your hands.Cold hands can lead to an inaccurate reading since the oximeter needs blood.Rub your hands together to warm them up.This will allow you to get a correct reading.
Step 12: Attach the probe to your finger.
The probe needs to be snug around the finger.Make sure your oximeter has a monitor attached to it.If you have a plug, make sure the cable runs through the back of your hand.
Step 13: You should rest your hand on your chest.
A good supply of blood will get to your finger as a result of this.If you hold your arm up in the air, the blood will leave the test site and cause an inaccurate reading.
Step 14: Measure your reading.
The oximeter should show your readings in about 10 seconds after you place it on your finger.It may take a little longer to calculate fully if your model also measures pulse.The top number in percentage form is usually the oxygen saturation reading.If you don't know how to read the oximeter's display, you can try removing it and putting it back on your finger.Make sure the batteries are fresh if this doesn't work.
Step 15: You should keep a log of your readings.
Some newer oximeters can send readings to a computer.If you don't have one of these, you should show your readings to your doctor.
Step 16: If your oxygen reading is low, you should contact your doctor.
There may be a problem with a normal oxygen saturation reading of 98% or higher.It could be an emergency.If your hands are cold, you aren't wearing nail polish, and the oximeter is not exposed to direct light, then you should contact your doctor.
Step 17: The battery should be charged at all times.
Keep your oximeter charged if it's battery-powered.It will be ready for use right away if you need it in a hurry.
Step 18: The oximeter's probe section needs to be cleaned.
Your oximeter will get dirty from use.It's important to keep the probe clean.Dirt and dust can block the light that the oximeter emits.When you put the probe on, it can cause an infection.Dust can be wiped away with a lightly damp cloth or paper towel.The alcohol swab can be used to kill germs.
Step 19: There is a safe place to store your oximeter.
It's important that your oximeter isn't knocked over and damaged.All plugs should be out of the way if your oximeter is the plug-in type.
Step 20: All wires should be disconnected.
When plugging in a cable, grab the plug, not the wire.This could cause a fire hazard.