Pulse Oximeters - Benefits

Patients on oxygen therapy need to measure their blood oxygenation - basically identifying the amount of oxygen dissolved in the blood.

The classical way of doing this was by taking and analyzing a patient´s blood sample and this meant going to the doctor or a clinic, and a long wait for the results.

But thing have changed now with the advent of oximeters and pulse oximeters. Thanks to today´s technology both patients and their physicians can now measure the oxygen level of the patient using a handy, portable pulse oximeter device.

Pulse oximetry is one of the latest developments in medicine and is becoming if not typical, then a practical device for patients because of their ease of use and speed of results. Their are many case, in emergencies for example, where the time frame is very limited and a quick reading can make the difference.

Unlike the other methods, with a pulse oximeter measurement it takes only seconds to determine the oxygen saturation. This is why they have become standard medical items for respiratory therapy and for emergency units.

Another good point is that they are very easy to use, and this means that anyone can use the pulse oximeter device and no medical training is required to use them.

As it can also be self administered, the need for a doctor, nurse or specialized medical professional is avoided because there are portable versions available today so everybody can use it.

The patient simply fits it into the finger, earlobe or as instructed (depending on the model), presses the button and waits several seconds for the result. As with everything technical, follow the instructions and make sure the battery is in working order so right measurements can be regulated and measured.

Newer, simpler and smaller versions are available that are more convenient compared to the old ones.

The finger pulse oximeter is becoming very popular as it brings immediate advantages including accurate and fast results with a minimal chance of error.

Accuracy levels are high as long as you are aware of some simple instructions. The placement of the finger should be in the slot provided and measurement can be affected by scars or nail polish as this disrupts the light emission (the reflection of light is used to calculate the readings).

Aside from reducing the need for clinical tests to identify blood saturation levels, one of the most important benefits pulse oximeters bring, for both oxygen therapy patients and emergency unit personnel, is the immediate measurement. This provides more time for possible corrective actions, and you can therefore safely say that pulse oximeters save lives.