Pulse oximeters have emerged as the latest must-have health instrument in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. The best pulse oximeter quickly vanished from the shelves of chemist stores as people flocked to buy them. You do not need to rush and buy just any pulse oximeter. This guide will help you understand what to look for and how to choose the best pulse oximeter to measure your blood oxygen levels.
The pulse oximeter is a small device that can clip onto either a finger, toe, or ear lobe. It checks the level of oxygen in the blood, which in medical terms, is called the peripheral oxygen saturation or (SpO2) level. Usually, when the blood oxygen levels go down, the patient complains of breathlessness or discomfort. The pulse oximeter can be easily purchased online and can forewarn if the condition of the patient is getting critical.
In this article:
List of Top 10 Bestselling Pulse Oximeter in India
Here is a quick snapshot of the Top 10 Best Pluse Oximeter available today for clear comparison.
Dr Trust (USA) Signature Series Finger Tip Pulse Oximeter is the newly upgraded finger pulse oximeter from Dr trust. It is an affordable and accurate way to check pulse rates and blood oxygen saturation levels. A simple one-button design allows for easy operation. A small portable size makes it easy to handle and carry. Helpful for athletes and pilots to obtain quick and accurate oxygen saturation readings and contains an audiovisual alarm. This is the best pulse oximeter available for medical professionals. The pulse oximeter comes with six months.
SpO2 & Pulse Measurement: Our Oximeter is designed for the non-invasive measurements of the pulse rate and Arterial Blood Oxygen Saturation (SpO2). This device shows a real-time reading within 6 seconds and shuts down automatically when you remove your finger
Critical Care: Our device records SpO2 and pulse rate during a medical emergency or intensive care. This device is widely used in clinics, hospitals, and homes to record vital signs of patients with respiratory issues like COPD, COAD, emphysema, asthma, etc
Perfusion Index (PI): PI indicates the pulse strength at the sensor site. While a regular pulse rate in waveform graph ensures the reliability of the readings
Prevents Hypoxia: Know about your asthma trigger and prevent hypoxia. Hypoxia, a common health condition faced by skiers, athletes, mountain climbers, pilots, and other people who go to high altitudes areas, where the level of blood oxygen drops down suddenly
Use For All: This device works well with all age groups and the best for offering pediatric care at home and in hospitals
Convenient And Flexible: The small, compact and innovative design comes with eight modes to display SpO2, PR pulse measurements quickly and accurately on a wide dual-color and multi-directional OLED display
Hypoallergenic Design: A high-quality ABS material makes it durable. Hypoallergenic latex-free material is coated inside the finger chamber making it anti-allergic for all those with sensitive skin. While with the provided lanyard it is easy to carry securely during travel
Painless Application: The fingertip clip is soft and easy to apply on different body parts and a wide range of finger sizes. This is comfortable to use without taking a blood sample from an artery. A buzzing alarm sounds when your measurements do not reach the standard point
Low Power Indication: This requires 2 AAA alkaline batteries and shuts off automatically when you are not using it. This also consumes less power and indicates when the battery is low
Indicators: Low Battery Indicator, Low, High Alarm
Convenience Features: Auto Shut Off, Water Resistant
Warranty
6-months warranty from the date of the invoice. (Warranty program is conditional subject to terms and conditions of the manufacturer and is available on registering on their website within 15 days of purchase)
Customers need to send their product to Dr. Trust Service center For Repair.
BPL Smart Oxy a portable fingertip SPO2 (Oxygen Saturation in blood) monitor that has six display modes and four directions display. It can be used for kids and adults. It measures the blood oxygen levels, pulse rate, and produces Perfusion Index (PI) graph. A finger pulse oximeter is equipped with technology to rapidly detect changes in your blood oxygen level with the purpose to check how well your heart is pumping oxygen through your body.
BPL is a brand that has been producing functional and sustainable medical devices apart from preventive health care devices like ECG, ultrasound, X-ray machines, infusion pumps, incubators, defibrillators, etc.
Perfusion Index
The perfusion index is an indication of the pulse strength at the sensor site. The PI’s values range from 0.02% for a very weak pulse to 20% for an extremely strong pulse
Perfusion index graph for continuous peripheral infusion
The PI waveform can depict irregular heartbeat PI% can indicate the strength of pulse and also indicate effects of anesthesia
Multi Directional Display
Measures SPO2, Pulse Rate
A Color OLED screen with a 4 directional screen Display, and customizable user alarms helps users with visual clarity and convenience.
User-Friendly Design
It runs on battery and is portable. Which makes BPL Smart Oxy Pulse Oximeter easy to carry.
User-friendly design and display define convenience of use.
Light and compact, suitable for a wide range of finger size
Another model of Dr Trust Pulse Oximeter, it provides Spo2, pulse rate, and pulse bar graph readings within seconds on the large size TFT display. The device has hospital-grade precision sensors for easy and clinically accurate results. This fingertip pulse oximeter comes with a large size TFT display screen which rotates in 4 directions to provide you a clear view of all your measurements for an easy read. Other than the warranty, this could be our pick for Best Pulse Oximeter considering its advanced features.
Features hospital-grade precision sensors for easy and clinically accurate results. It provides Spo2, pulse rate, and pulse bar graph readings within seconds on a large size TFT display
This fingertip pulse oximeter comes with a large size TFT display. The bright large size screen rotates in 4 directions to provide you a clear view of the all your measurements for an easy read
Includes everything needed to use it right out of the package. 2 AAA batteries included in the package for your convenience. One set of batteries can give you up to 30 hours of continuous monitoring
This is light-weight and compact size device which is easy to carry with you for use either at home or outdoor
This is a small clamp-like device that can be placed easily on the fingertip. Press the button, a small beam of light passes through the finger and afterward, the display will show the result
A wide range of finger sizes fits in the finger chamber with infrared light. Sports enthusiasts, mountain climbers, skiers anyone who wants to measure their Spo2 and pulse worry-free
Indicators: Low Battery Indicator, Low, High Alarm, Does not have Sensor Fault Indicator
Convenience Features: Auto Shut Off, Water Resistant
Warranty
6-months warranty from the date of the invoice. (Warranty program is conditional subject to terms and conditions of the manufacturer and is available on registering on their website within 15 days of purchase)
Customers need to send their product to Dr. Trust Service center For Repair.
Receive your blood-oxygen levels in seconds with Dr Vaku Swadesi Finger Tip Pulse Oximeter. This oximeter can measure and monitor heart rate, SpO2 and pulse intensity with high accuracy. Displays waveform (plethysmograph) and digital readings, as well as pulse bar graphs, to visually indicate any irregularities or abnormalities, such as weak heartbeat.
Accurate and Reliable: The Perfusion Index and Plethysmograph Waveform will help you to determine the reliability of your reading.
Portable and Lightweight: The small size of the oximeter makes it easy for you to carry around in your everyday life.
Quality OLED Display: OLED display is large and bright. Long press button to adjust the brightness of the screen. From darkness to bright sunlight, this OLED display can be easily and clearly viewed in any environment.
Easy to Operate: It’s only necessary for users to put one of his fingers into the fingertip photoelectric sensor for diagnosis, and a display screen will show measured values of SpO2 (oxygen saturation level), pulse rate and heart rate waveform in about 10 seconds without the need of a professional.
VRcast Fingertip Pulse Oximeter provides hospital-grade precision sensors for easy and clinically accurate results. SpO2, pulse rate, pulse waveform, and pulse bar graph readings. This device features a large LED screen to display measurement results. The size of the screen makes it easier and convenient for the user to read. The device is made from high-quality ABS material and is suitable for everyday use.
Comes with a large size TFT display.
Bright large size screen rotates in 4 directions to provide a clear view of your readings.
Light-weight and compact size device which is easy to carry along.
VRcast Fingertip Pulse Oximeter provides hospital-grade precision sensors for easy and clinically accurate results. SpO2, pulse rate, pulse waveform, and pulse bar graph readings. This device features a large LED screen to display measurement results. The size of the screen makes it easier and convenient for the user to read. The device is made from high-quality ABS material and is suitable for everyday use.
Comes with a large size TFT display.
Bright large size screen rotates in 4 directions to provide a clear view of your readings.
Light-weight and compact size device which is easy to carry along.
The AccuSure Pulse Oximeter is our top pick amongst the Best Pulse Oximeter in India for 2020. It is an electronic medical device that aids in quick monitoring of oxygen carried in the body. The Oximeter is a fingertip type Pulse Oximeter which helps in easy, simple, completely painless measures or tests of how well oxygen is being sent to parts of the user’s body furthest from his heart, such as the arms and legs. Accurate pulse rate and SpO2 readings are particularly important for patients who are physically active or experiencing frequent drops in oxygen levels.
Newnik pulse oximeter gives instant blood oxygen saturation, pulse rate, and pulse strength. It has a wavelength display, which clearly shows inconsistencies. The screen can be rotated in four directions to read the results easily. It is our third best pulse oximeter pick for 2020.
Unique Feature: Auto Power On & Off, Water-Resistant, Buzzer Visual Alarm, Dual Color OLED Display. Four direction display, Low battery indication
Quick, Accurate And Easy To Use: Newly designed monitor gives instant readings of blood oxygen saturation (SpO2), pulse rate(PR) and pulse strength(PI), Plethysmogram and displays them on a large OLED screen. Wavelength display clearly shows inconsistencies.
Display rotates four directions: easily take your measurements or someone else’s
Individually Tested For Accuracy: Each device undergoes rigorous testing and is approved for use by the FDA & CE carry 1-year warranty
The Wembley Pulse Oximeter provides a quick reading of your blood oxygen levels. The device measures the radial pulse. The BPM range is 30-240BPM. Lightweight materials and compact structure make the Wembley Plastic Pulse Oximeter easy to use on the go. The device is suitable for all ages, but fingers that are too small show mixed results.
Arcatron Pulse Oximeter is used to measure SpO2 and heart rate measurement. The device has soft silica gel finger mold, multi-directional display, and is perfect for home use.
Easy Operation & Quick Result: One-Button operation mode and very quick testing time of 5 – 20 seconds. Painless infrared measurement.
Multi Details Measurement: Not only the blood oxygen saturation level but the smart care pulse oximeter also measures Pulse Rate & Pulse Intensity.
Multi-Directional Display: Humanized detail design with 2 color display can read different gestures in different directions accurately. Also Shows heart rate details as a graph and as a bar.
Light, Compact & Long Lasting: Weighing only 50g & having 2 AAA batteries, it accommodates a wide range of finger sizes and smart shutdown saves energy to last long.
Extensive Uses: Smartcare Pulse Oximeter is widely used in clinics, hospitals, old age home care, social medical organizations, emergency transportation, first aid treatments, and home care institutions.
In The Box
Pulse Oximeter
Battery
Manual
General Features
Type: Fingertip Pulse Oximeter
Display Type: LED Display
Readings Displayed: Oxygen saturation SpO2, Heart Pulse, Heart Rate Bar
Indicators: Has alarm indicator, but does not have Sensor Fault Indicator, Low Battery Indicator
Wembley oximeters are useful for people who have conditions that affect oxygen saturation. Wembley oximeter can also provide feedback about the effectiveness of breathing interventions, such as oxygen therapy and ventilators. The Wembley oximeters also alert on dangerously low oxygen levels.
Based on full digital technology, K-Life FTP-103 Finger Tip Pulse Oximeter measures the actual content (oxygen saturation of oxyhemoglobin (Hb02) in arterial blood using the optical transmittance method. The finger tip pulse oximeter measures the blood oxygen saturation and pulse rate of the human body via the finger artery.
High Accuracy in measuring blood oxygen saturation level and pulse rate
Low battery indicator, auto power-off
Color OLED Display
Waveform Display of oxygen saturation and pulse monitoring
MEDTECH Fingertip Pulse Oximeter OG03 is used to measure and monitor heart rate, SpO2, and pulse intensity with high accuracy. Displays waveform (plethysmograph) and digital readings, as well as pulse bar graphs, to visually indicate any irregularities or abnormalities, such as weak heartbeat. The monitor is very light, small in size, consumes low power, and is easy to carry on a detachable lanyard; so, you can measure oxygen saturation anywhere. Auto power-offs seconds after removing finger saves battery life. The oximeter has a buzzer and a low battery indicator.
Accurate and Reliable: This oximeter can measure readings with high accuracy. It is essential to take a reading without moving the body or hand for better results.
Easy to Use: Insert a finger into the rubber of the pulse oximeter and press the power-on switch.
Light and Portable: It is very light, small in size, consumes low power, and is easy to carry around.
Water resistant: note product is designed to withstand accidental splash of water. Increasingly higher depths of water will render the product unusable. Product is water resistant and not water proof
Doctors choice: measures quickly and accurately pulse rate and spo2 blood oxygen saturation of arterial hemoglobin levels. Accurately determine your spo2 (blood oxygen saturation levels), fast spo2 readings, pulse measurements and display it conveniently on a large digital bright led display
Accurate: rotatable multidirectional display, allows you to view your results in any direction plus pulse wave, pulse rate, bar graph, spo2 level and battery level
Compact: light and compact, accommodates wide range of finger sizes, long battery life
ACCURATE, FAST AND RELIABLE MEASUREMENTS : The Dr Trust Professional Series Fingertip Pulse Oximeter determines your blood oxygen saturation level (SPO2), Perfusion Index, respiratory rate, pulse rate and pulse bar graph accurately
WATER RESISTANT IP 22: It is designed to withstand accidental splash of water. Increasingly higher depths of water will render the product unusable. Please note this is water resistant and not water proof
MULTIDIRECTIONAL OLED SCREEN DISPLAY: Bright multi-directional OLED display is highly advanced and large in size enabling to read the measurements even in dark room. Large font readings can also be read easily by the elders
ALARM +OTHER SETTINGS: It is perfect health partner as comes with adjustable settings of brightness, display and other parameters. It also has alarm settings to switch ON and OFF the sound as per the choice of user
IN THE BOX: Package contents include 1 x Finger Oximeter, battery, one lanyard and user manual
Pulse Oximeter is a portable, convenient, non-invasive device, used for monitor arterial hemoglobin oxygen saturation(SpO2) and pulse rate
EASY to operate pulse oximeter. This portable monitor allows you to quickly and easily red oxygen saturation levels, pulse rate and pulse strength. Bright LED display is easy to read.
LIGHTWEIGHT & PORTABLE: VITIKA oxygen saturation monitor is very light and small size, low power consumption and convenient in carrying. Also it comes with a detachable lanyard which can measure your oxygen saturation anywhere.
ACCOMODATES WIDE RANGE OF FINGER SIZES – The finger chamber of the oximeter is built with medical grade hypoallergenic silicon and a SMART Spring System. Works for ages 12 and above.
CONVENIENCE: One button operation and shut down automatically without operation in 8 seconds. Our fingertip clip use silica gel material which are soft and easy to apply. Our pulse oximeter comes with a lanyard, bring to the gym, office, or on vacation.
Designed for Doctors ,Home Use & Outdoors】---This professional medical oxygen Pulse Oximeter is handy for detecting vital signs, it is intended for where you need to know your oxygen level like running, hiking or cycling, or while traveling in an aircraft
【OLED Display】---with multi-directional display, allows you to view your results in any direction plus Pulse wave, Pulse Rate, bar graph, SpO2 level and Battery level
【Fits All Fingers】---The Pulse Oximeter fits all finger sizes from kids above four years old to adults as it measures the level of oxygen in the blood and reads the pulse rate in just eight to ten seconds
【Precise & Reliable】--- Quickly determine your SpO2 (blood oxygen saturation levels), Fast SpO2 readings, pulse measurements and display it conveniently on a large digital LED display
【Our Guarantee】---If you have any question about our oxygen monitor finger, please free contact us via amazon, our support team will reply within 24 hours for any technical support. Your satisfaction is our top priority
Pulse oximeter & heart rate monitor reliably measures through fingertip arterial oxygen saturation (spo2) and heart rate (pulse). Measurement of spo2 as a potential vital sign in acute illnesses measuremet of heart rate (pulse) particularly suitable for persons with: heart failure, chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases, bronchial asthma also suitable for sports at high altitudes
Stay on top of your health regular monitoring of blood oxygen saturation & pulse becomes crucial when staying on top of your health, either because of heart problems, pulmonary diseases or asthma or simply during strenuous sports activity.
Easy to use the beurer pulse oximeter, po30 is easy and practical to use, as the device provides a large colored display with adjustable brightness and orientation, 4 graphic display formats, auto switch-off, and low battery indicator.
Extra small & portable with a weight of only 2 ounces and a size of 2.4 x 1.4 x 1.2 inches the beurer po30 is extra-small and suitable for use at home and on the move.
The beurer fingertip pulse oximeter, po30 includes only batteries, colour display with 4 available views adjustable display brightness graphic pulse display small and light for use at home and on the move automatic switch-off low battery indicator
✅ ACCURATE AND RELIABLE – Our oximeter fingertip pulse accurately determines your SpO2 (blood oxygen saturation levels), pulse rate, pulse strength and perfusion index in 10 seconds and display it conveniently on a large digital LED backlit display.
✅ LIGHTWEIGHT & PORTABLE: Vandelay oxygen saturation monitor is very light and small size, low power consumption and convenient in carrying. Also it comes with a detachable lanyard which can measure your oxygen saturation anywhere.
✅ ACCOMODATES WIDE RANGE OF FINGER SIZES – The finger chamber of the oximeter is built with medical grade hypoallergenic silicon and a SMART Spring System. Works for ages 12 and above.
✅ CONVENIENCE: One button operation and shut down automatically without operation in 8 seconds. Our fingertip clip use silica gel material which are soft and easy to apply. Our pulse oximeter comes with a lanyard, bring to the gym, office, or on vacation.
✅ 1 YEAR WARRANTY - We have utmost faith in the quality and longevity of our products. Contact our world class customer support for any warranty related queries.
Accurate and reliable - Adopts advanced technology and approved by FDA&CE, this pulse oximeter accurately determine your SpO2 and pulse rate in 5 seconds and the readings are made for 30 seconds. Error of both SpO2 and pulse rate are ±2% without exercise and ±3% after sport.
Bright OLED Multi Direction Display -The large and rotatable multidirectional display allows you to view your results in any direction easily, making it more convenient to test different fingers.
EASY OPRATION - The one button operation design makes our oxygen saturation monitor simple and convenient to use. Only need to insert one of their fingers into the photoelectric fingertip sensor, then the screen will show an accurate result clearly
LOW POWER CONSUMPTION - Equipped with two AAA batteries, the oximeter automatically powers off when not in use and delivers up to 24 continuous hours of battery life. Portable and lightweight.
DESIGNED FOR HOME, EXERCISE OR TRAVEL-Suitable for sports and health enthusiasts or anyone interested in measuring their SpO2 and pulse rate, such as mountain climbers, skiers, bikers. If the product has quality problems, please contact us via Amazon Mail. Compare with similar items
The pulse oximeter can help in keeping track of the blood oxygen level of the patient. It can be a vital tool to signal an early warning if the level of oxygen saturation in the blood is consistently falling. The patient should consult a medical expert for further analysis. Further, even in cases when it is detected, and the patient is recovering, pulse oximeter helps keep a tab on the condition and can be a lifesaver device.
Since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, pulse oximeter has been recommended to diagnose and monitor COVID-19 symptoms. However, the device is part of the screening process and cannot detect the disease on its own. It may show low oxygen levels, which is co-related to COVID-19, but it may not be an as definitive reason, and hence the person should be tested for novel Coronavirus.
As discussed in our review article on Best Nebulizers in India, COVID-19 patient suffers from respiratory complications and may develop shortness of breath. The initial symptoms of a patient who is corona positive are similar to normal flu. This commonality of symptoms makes it is difficult to detect COVID-19 early on.
But some patients, due to COVID-19 condition, are not showing symptoms of breathlessness or discomfort leading to a condition called silent hypoxia. In this condition, oxygen reaching the tissue level is not sufficient. The lungs may also be getting involved in the disease without any noticeable symptoms. By the time the patient goes to the hospital, they are already in a critical condition. The pulse oximeter may help in early detection of COVID-19 pneumonia which, is a severe condition in some patients.
How Pulse Oximeters Measure Oxygen Levels?
Blood oxygen saturation and heart rate are measured by pulse oximeter when a ray of light passes through the skin and detects the color and movement of blood cells. While blood cells with the right amount of oxygen are bright red, others are dark red. The pulse oximeter compares both dark red and bright red cells to calculate oxygen saturation. If the reading of your pulse oximeter says 98 percent, it means two percent of blood cells have a deficiency of oxygen.
For an average healthy person, the blood oxygen saturation level is 95-100 percent. Anything below 92 percent can be termed as a critical situation and may need help to bring oxygen level back to normal. The heart rate in a normal adult ranges from 60-100 beats per minute.
The pulse oximeter runs on a battery and has an LED display to show the blood oxygen and pulse rate. The pulse oximeter has an advantage of cost and speed over other testing methodologies to measure blood oxygen saturation and pulse rate. Although laboratory analysis of a blood sample is the most accurate way to obtain SpO2 reading, an oximeter takes a few seconds to get this reading. The accuracy of pulse oximeter readings (usually within ±1% to 3%) is sufficient for most situations.
The device also shows your heart rate. A regular resting heart rate for adults ranges from about 60 to 100 beats per minute, although athletes with higher cardiovascular fitness will have a lower pulse.
Perfusion Index (PI) can determine the Accuracy of Pulse Oximeter readings
The perfusion index indicates the strength of the pulse. The values of the Perfusion Index range from 0.02% (very weak pulse) to 20% (extremely strong pulse). Depending on patients, physiological conditions and where is the PI measures, the perfusion index varies. Because of this variability, a baseline of PI is established for the patient for a given location. Then monitoring of the change in PI happens vis-à-vis this baseline.
The Plethysmograph (or Pleth for short), available in many pulse oximeters, represents the perfusion index in graphical mode. PI is a good indicator to check how reliable the pulse oximeter reading is. If the PI is below 0.4%, most pulse oximeters readings would be unreliable. Measurement of pulse oximeter for low PI rates adds a lot of sensitivity to the sensor, thereby making such oximeters more expensive.
Buying Guide : How to choose best pulse oximeter?
Although, it is a simple device to measure blood oxygen saturation level. Before buying the best pulse oximeter here are couple of things you should consider:
Consult a doctor
If there is a family doctor who can advise you on what kind of pulse oximeter you need, it would help you zero down the choice. Consulting a doctor also helps because he is aware of your medical history and requirements and if you need one with any special features.
Features of pulse oximeter
Check the features of various Pluse Oximeters available in the market. Some of these are critical features, whereas some non-critical features can also help you narrow down your choices. Here is a list of what you should look for in an oximeter before buying:
Price: Excellent pulse oximeters are available at different price points. However, you should not base your decision on prices and brand names alone. Consider buying the Pulse oximeter that offers the most optimal balance between price and features as per your requirements.
Certification: Although almost all oximeters for sale on the market are certified. You should verify the certification of the pulse oximeter you choose to buy.
Accuracy and reliability: Pulse oximeters primarily measure your oxygen saturation (SpO2) levels and pulse rate. The accuracy of the oximeter is affected by movements. So, if your hand trembles, find a model that is more tolerant to hand movements or hold your hand still while taking readings. Most of the oximeters available in the market today have an accuracy of ±3%. So check the sensitivity of the oximeter so that it consistently and reliably measure accurate results.
Ease of use: Usually fingertip pulse oximeters are easy to operate. To operate you need to insert your finger into the sensor and then pressing a button. For ease of reading, some oximeters display the readings in different ways. Choose a device with a large enough display screen.
Sensor size: It all boils down to how well your figure fits the sensor of the oximeter. Make sure you can comfortably insert your finger in the sensor. Usually, for clip-on type oximeter, this is not an issue. However, consider a pediatric pulse oximeter for children and persons with small hands for more accurate readings.
Other key features: There are few other features that can assist you in using the oximeter, although these could be non-essential but important for you to consider:
Memory: For ease of storage. It would be really great if the oximeter can save previous readings with timestamps and generate visual statistics.
Multi-person Capability: Can the oximeter save readings for more than one person.
Appearance: How easy and aesthetic is the form factor of the oximeter.
Power Source/Battery: Check what kind of batteries are required to provide power to the oximeter to function.
Accessories: What are the additional accessories the oximeter comes with such as storage case, logbook, battery, lanyard, etc.
App/Software for Data Analysis: Does the Oximeter provide some integration with an App or a software program to help you analyze the data.
Computer interface: How easy is it to integrate with a computer interface so that you can save readings for further analysis by you or your doctor.
Return Policy
Since you are buying the pulse oximeter online, do check the return policy in case you get a defective or damaged piece. While some offer return/exchange, there are manufacturers who do not have a return policy. So, keep the return policy in mind before ordering your pulse oximeter.
Pulse Oximeter FAQs
What do pulse oximeter do?
A pulse oximeter is a device to monitor the amount of oxygen carried in the body. The oximeter is a small, lightweight device that can be attached to your fingertip. The equipment sends two wavelengths through the finger to measure oxygen in your system and your pulse rate.
Why is pulse oximeter used?
The pulse oximeter can help to monitor if there is enough oxygen in the blood. The need to measure the oxygen level in blood is due to multiple reasons like 1. pre-or-post-surgery care for a patient given sedation; 2. to check if artificial breathing assistance like a ventilator is required;3. to verify the functioning of the lung; or, 4. to monitor conditions of sleep apnea (when breathing stops during sleep).
The pulse oximeter has an advantage of cost and speed over other testing methodologies to measure blood oxygen saturation and pulse rate. Although laboratory analysis of a blood sample is the most accurate way to obtain SpO2 reading, an oximeter takes a few seconds to get this reading. With a ±1% to 3% accuracy, the pulse oximeter readings are sufficient for most situations.
What pulse oximeter measures?
The pulse oximeter measures the saturation of oxygen carried in your red blood cells (RBC). The device helps in determining the functioning of the heart and lungs. And, how well the supply of oxygen to the furthest part of the human body is happening.
How does pulse oximeter work?
A pulse oximeter, when attached to the fingertip, sends infrared wavelengths through the finger to measure pulse rate and oxygen level in blood and body. The principle of pulse oximetry relies on the differences between oxygenated and deoxygenated red cells in absorption of red and infrared light wavelengths.
Are pulse oximeters useful for patients suffering from novel coronavirus (COVID-19)?
COVID-19 impacts the lungs and cause severe respiratory discomfort. The pulse oximeter can not detect the status of COVID-19 infection in the patient, but it helps in detecting the oxygen levels in the blood. Since lungs pump the oxygen into the heart which distributes it throughout the body via Red Blood Cells.
The pulse oximeter can be a vital tool to track the blood oxygen level of the patient. If the patient’s level of oxygen is consistently falling, the pulse oximeter can provide an early warning signal in case the patient needs to consult a medical expert or requires intensive care. Further, even for patients recovering from COVID-19, pulse oximeter helps to keep a tab on the condition and can be a lifesaver device.
Can pulse oximeter detect covid-19 infection?
No, the pulse oximeter cannot detect Covid-19 infection and it can only detect the oxygen levels in the blood. A pulse oximeter is not the right machine to be considered for Covid-19 status. Lower blood oxygen is one of the reasons for Covid-19 and this device only tells you about the blood oxygen level. But there could be other reasons for this and you need to get the person test for Covid-19.
Are pulse oximeters accurate?
The pulse oximeter is reasonably accurate when the patient has a regular pulse. Usually, the accuracy rate of most pulse oximeters is in the range of ±1% to 3%. If the pulse rate is very weak i.e. below 0.4% the readings of the pulse oximeters would not be accurate.
How to get accurate readings from pulse oximeters?
To get most accurate reading on a pulse oximeter, follow these simple steps: 1). Position the device correctly. Make sure the device is neither too tight or too loose and fits well on finger, toe or ear lobe. 2). Make sure the person is sitting still. The reading may be affected if the person is shaking or shivering. 3). Remove any nail polish. Colour on nails may also impact the readings. Either remove the nail paint or try a different finger, nail or earlobe.
Where to use pulse oximeter?
The pulse oximeter is a small clip-like device that can be attached to a body part like a finger, toes, or earlobe. The index finger is best to use the pulse oximeter.
What to do if pulse oximeter reading is too low?
The average blood oxygen level is between 75-100 mm. Pulse oximeter shows the oxygen level in blood between 95-100 percent, and anything less than 90 percent are considered dangerous. The lower oxygen levels can be due to many reasons. If the pulse oximeter shows blood oxygen saturation levels less than 90 percent, you should consult a doctor immediately.
Which pulse oximeter is best?
We have done a comprehensive review of the Top 10 Best Pulse Oximeter available in India. You can find the details here.
Can I buy a pulse oximeter online?
Pulse oximeters are available online, and there are several models from which one can choose. You can refer to our review of the Top 10 Best Pulse Oximeters in India and order the best model that suits your requirements from Amazon.
Can pulse oximeter detect heart attack?
The pulse oximeter can observe irregular heartbeat and also drop in blood oxygen levels. A heart attack is a result of reduced blood supply and oxygen to the heart muscle. It affects the heart pumping function and lowers the amount of oxygenated blood in the body. So, pulse oximeters can provide an early warning signal of a heart attack and allow medical care professionals to attend to the patient adequately.
Can pulse oximeter give false readings?
Yes, there are possibilities of pulse oximeter giving wrong readings. Usually, if the patient is moving or the hands are shaking or shivering, the readings may have a higher degree of error. Further, a warmer hand gives better readings than colder hands. So, under severe conditions, the oximeter’s measurements could be incorrect. The readings also depend on how tight or loose the device fits the patient’s finger. Lastly, as it is a device that operates on battery, under low battery conditions, the accuracy of equipment may also suffer.
What are the risks of using pulse oximeter?
As with all such devices, pulse oximeter too may have some risks such as getting wrong or incorrect reading, causing skin irritation, etc. Check with a qualified doctor about the risks involved in your case before using the pulse oximeter.
Does it matter on which finger I use the pulse oximeter?
Usually, the index finger is the most preferred finger to read the blood oxygen level. It does not matter as such which finger, toe, or ear lobe you use to get the reading.
Do long nails or nail polish have any impact on using pulse oximeter effectively?
Yes, they do have a significant impact on getting the right measurement of the oxygen saturation level. Nail polish affects the accuracy of reading, and long nails may interfere with the device fitting properly on the finger.
What happens if my oxygen level falls? What is the treatment?
There could be many reasons behind the drop in oxygen saturation levels in the blood. The medical professionals will need to diagnose the root cause of such a decline and start suitable treatment. Usually, oxygen is given to the patient via a face mask to regularise the level of oxygen saturation levels. If the drop in oxygen saturation level is significant, the patient may be put on artificial respiration using a ventilator. You should never ignore the declining oxygen levels and consult your doctor immediately.
Conclusion
In the post-COVID-19 era, Pulse Oximeters are a must-have device. Oximeters can not test the status of coronavirus infection of a person. They help in checking the blood oxygen levels which may be low due to a number of factors including the presence of coronavirus in the body. Pulse oximeters are easy to use and can be carried out without any difficulty. In addition to the blood oxygen level, the oximeters also help in gauging the pulse rate and pulse strength.
Based on our review of Best Pulse Oximeter, we hope you would have found the right pulse oximeter for your needs. Please do leave a comment below to share your feedback; or, if you need to know more about any specific point discussed in this article; or, in case you have any query regarding the Oximeter buying guide. We will try to respond to your comments as soon as possible.
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Product details last update on 2023-06-06 at 11:11 / Contains Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
A professional artist, homemaker, and editor at BestPriceBuys.com, Shweta guides content creation. She has a keen focus and commitment to thoroughly research and present the most genuine and authentic information. She aims to satisfy the information needs of readers to find the Best Products to Buy in their purchase journey.
