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Fingertip pulse oximeter: measuring oxygen saturation of your blood

A finger pulse oximeter quickly and easily measures a patient’s blood's oxygen saturation and heart rate. These kinds of devices have to be attached to well perfused areas like earlobes, feet, or fingers. Finger pulse oximeter models have been proven to be specially easy to use and reliable. It's simple design and handling makes them perfect for using in hospitals, doctor’s offices, or even privately at home. Patients that use an oxygen supply machine or those with chronic lung diseases, asthma, lung cancer, or anaemia will find these instruments really helpful for self-monitoring their own values.

Benefits of using a pulse oximeter

In the past, health professionals could only measure a patient’s blood oxygen supply by time-consuming examinations that included blood withdrawal. But in the 1980s, the pulse oximeter was invented. These devices allow for a non-invasive procedure that can detect potential oxygen deficiency before there is any cyanosis.

How to use a pulse oximeter

Using a finger pulse oximeter is fairly easy, non-invasive, and really quick. Simply place the device on the patient’s or your own fingertip. Their clips have a light source that emits light beams in different wavelengths which penetrate the skin. The sensor, which is on the clip’s other side, measures which light waves were not absorbed based on the blood’s colour. Red light means the haemoglobin is saturated, dark/burgundy red means the haemoglobin is not saturated enough. The photodiodes located at the oximeter’s bottom part measure the strength of the incoming light. These two values combined are used to determine the Spo2 oxygen saturation. The values determined should normally be between 93% and 99% and not fall below the 90% mark.

Factors that may influence the oxygen saturation measurement

When used correctly, a finger pulse oximeter usually delivers very accurate results. However, there are a number of factors that can influence the shown data. Some of them are:

    • Unstable blood flow: An unstable blood flow will result in inaccurate measurements. Having cold hands blunders with the results. Low pressure or cardiac arrest may also difficult the whole procedure.
    • Shaking: The patient’s hand should always be steady when measuring. Even small movements can falsify the results.
    • Non-natural fingernails: Painted or artificial fingernails do not let the pulse oximeter absorb the light correctly. Fungi can also cause this problem. This is why patients should always have natural, healthy nails.
    • Smoke poisoning: Carbon monoxide binds to the haemoglobin. If a patient has carbon monoxide poisoning, the results of the pulse oximeter will be false.
    • Haemoglobin changes: Another reason may be haemoglobin changing conditions such as methemoglobinemia. Some medicines may cause this.

Buy finger pulse oximeters online at the DocCheck Shop

A finger pulse oximeter is a little superhero! Whether for a doctor’s office, hospital, emergency wards, or for private use: they are indispensable for measuring, controlling and monitoring essential vital signs. Are you looking for a reliable device for your basic equipment? We offer finger pulse oximeters from renowned manufacturers such as Edan or Novidion. You'll also find the right pulse oximeter accessories, e.g. sensors, charging stations or cases. And do not be shy - have a look at our other measuring devices, such as blood pressure monitors or mobile ECG devices.