How to Use a Pulse Oximeter

A pulse oximeter is intended for non invasive monitoring of the amount of oxygen dissolved in blood using infrared technology. The device includes a probe that may be clipped or attached to certain parts of the body, commonly the fingertip. They come in a variety of types and sizes to cater to different age groups.

Stationary Digital Pulse Oximeters

Hospitals mainly use stationary oximeters as part of their patient monitoring devices. They are very practical, and have larger displays for easy monitoring. They have an alarm system that goes off when abnormal values are noted.

The following types are more commonly used in ambulatory settings.

Handheld Pulse Oximeters

Handheld types consist of a fingertip probe and a handheld base unit that displays the results. Depending on the model, some units may include an alarm if the reading goes lower than the expected value. They may also feature a large memory bank to store data or store a back up of these data to a computer.

Handheld units are portable and lightweight which allows it to be used in any setting, from hospital to home.

Finger Pulse Oximeters

The handy finger pulse oximeter is a compact unit containing all the necessary tools for spot checks and pulse rate reading. It is very simple and easy to use which usually operates with a single button, that’s why this type is also ideal for home, outdoor, and emergency use. They also have a pediatric fingertip pulse oximeter designed especially for children.

Using the Pulse Oximeter

Generally, pulse oximeters are very easy to operate. And among the above mentioned types, the accuracy of obtaining an oxygen saturation reading is still the same. Reliability of the results sometimes becomes an issue due to certain external and even internal factors. To avoid such problems, it is imperative that prior to using or inserting the person’s finger into the probe, there must be no nail polish present. The finger, usually the ring or index, must be inserted into the probe or sensor, unless the probe is designed to be taped around the finger. In a few seconds, the results will be put on display. Oxygen saturation is read in percentage. And the normal value range from 95 to 100 %. Hypoxemia is suspected once the values fall below 90% and interventions must be done promptly to prevent further damage. The probe must be cleaned by wiping the inner portion with isopropyl alcohol, although some are for single use only.