Pulse Oximeter

The pulse oximeter consists of a small, portable unit with a display screen and a probe that is typically placed on a patient’s fingertip, earlobe, or toe. The probe contains light-emitting diodes (LEDs) that emit both red and infrared light into the patient’s blood vessels. The light passes through the blood vessels to a photodetector on the opposite side of the probe.

Hemoglobin, the molecule responsible for carrying oxygen in the blood, absorbs different amounts of red and infrared light depending on whether it is bound to oxygen or not. The pulse oximeter measures the ratio of absorbed light at these two wavelengths and calculates the oxygen saturation percentage (SpO2) in the patient’s blood.

The SpO2 reading provided by the pulse oximeter indicates the percentage of hemoglobin that is saturated with oxygen. A normal SpO2 level is typically between 95% and 100%. Values below 95% may indicate hypoxemia, a condition where there is an insufficient amount of oxygen in the blood, which could be caused by various medical conditions.

In addition to measuring SpO2, many pulse oximeters also display the patient’s heart rate (pulse rate), which is derived from the pulsatile nature of blood flow. The heart rate reading helps healthcare professionals assess the patient’s cardiac function and overall well-being.

Pulse oximeters are widely used in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, emergency rooms, and even home care. They are especially valuable in monitoring patients with respiratory conditions, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, pneumonia, and other breathing difficulties. Additionally, they are useful during surgeries, anesthesia administration, and in critical care units to ensure patients are adequately oxygenated.

It is important to note that while pulse oximeters are valuable tools, they are not a substitute for a comprehensive medical evaluation. If you are a medical patient using a pulse oximeter at home, always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions, and if you have any concerns about your health or the readings obtained from the device, consult with a medical professional promptly.