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Pulse oximeters are an essential tool for quickly measuring blood oxygen levels non-invasively. Monitoring blood oxygenation helps identify unhealthy oxygen saturation in the blood. Low measurements are the first indicator that someone needs medical attention due to reduced oxygen levels.
What is a Pulse Oximeter?
A pulse oximeter is a small device that is usually placed on the fingertip. It uses infrared light to measure blood oxygen levels and is also often found in healthcare and other clinical settings. In some instances, athletes also use them to monitor performance.
What Does a Pulse Oximeter Do?
A pulse oximeter measures how well the heart is pumping blood throughout the body. People with health conditions such as asthma or COPD may have lower blood oxygen levels and may need to measure levels regularly. Typically, people with respiratory conditions and heart conditions may need to keep a pulse oximeter handy.
How to Read a Pulse Oximeter
Most pulse oximeters display your oxygen saturation level and your pulse rate. They may also show a pulse bar graph. To best understand the numbers on display, use the graph below to know healthy blood oxygen levels.
| 95-100% SpO2 | Normal |
| 91-95% SpO2 | Concerning |
| >90% SpO2 | Low |
| 80-85% SpO2 | Point when low levels may affect your brain |
| 67% SpO2 | Critically low levels |
How Accurate are Pulse Oximeters?
Pulse oximeters cleared by the FDA often fall within a 2-3% range of accuracy. However, several real-world factors can affect the readings of the device. These include, but are not limited to:
- Nail Polish
- Skin Pigmentation
- Tobacco Use
- Skin Temperature
How Much Does a Pulse Oximeter Cost?
Pulse oximeters are reasonably priced. They range in cost from $34.00 to $53.00 depending on design, portability, and additional features.
Is It Safe to Buy a Pulse Oximeter Online?
You can find a variety of pulse oximeters that are safe for purchase online. Reputable brands can be found at the Oxygen Concentrator Supplies Shop. Call 888-941-1688 or also email contact@oxygenconcentratorsupplies.com today.
Pulse oximeters are an essential tool for quickly measuring blood oxygen levels non-invasively. Monitoring blood oxygenation helps identify unhealthy oxygen saturation in the blood. Low measurements are the first indicator that someone needs medical attention due to reduced oxygen levels.
What Is A Pulse Oximeter?
A pulse oximeter is a small device that is usually placed on the fingertip. It uses infrared light to measure blood oxygen levels and is also often found in healthcare and other clinical settings. In some instances, athletes also use them to monitor performance.
A pulse oximeter is similar to a clip-like design, and can also be called a "probe". As stated, it is placed usually on a fingertip to measure a person's blood oxygen level. A pulse oximeter works by having the probe use light to measure how much oxygen is in the blood. This information will help a doctor determine if someone is in need of supplemental oxygen.
What Does A Pulse Oximeter Measure?
A pulse oximeter measures how well the heart is pumping blood throughout the body. People with health conditions such as asthma or COPD may have lower blood oxygen levels and may need to measure levels regularly. Typically, people with respiratory conditions and heart conditions may need to keep a pulse oximeter handy.
How to Read a Pulse Oximeter
Most pulse oximeters display your oxygen saturation level and your pulse rate. They may also show a pulse bar graph. To best understand the numbers on display, use the graph below to know healthy blood oxygen levels.
| 95-100% SpO2 | Normal |
| 91-95% SpO2 | Potentially Concerning |
| >90% SpO2 | Low |
| 80-85% SpO2 | Low enough to affect the brain |
| 67% SpO2 | Critically low levels |
Which Finger To Use For a Pulse Oximeter Reading
Typically, to get the best results, a pulse oximeter is placed on a person's middle finger on their right hand. However, it can also be placed on a person's pointer and ring fingers to show accurate results as well.
How to Use a Pulse Oximeter
- Make sure you are well-rested before taking this measurement.
- Remove any nail polish or fake nails you may have on your fingers.
- Turn on the oximeter and place it on your middle finger.
- Keep the oximeter in place for at least 1 minute to get a proper measurement.
How Much Does a Pulse Oximeter Cost?
Pulse oximeters are reasonably priced. They range in cost from $34.00 to $53.00 depending on design, portability, and additional features.
Is It Safe To Buy A Pulse Oximeter Online?
You can find a variety of pulse oximeters that are safe for purchase online. Reputable brands can be found at the Oxygen Concentrator Supplies Shop. Call our expert staff at 888-941-1688 if you have any questions!
