The Uses And Functions Of A Wrist Pulse Oximeter

By Harriett Crosby


Adults are aware of the fact that their heart rate can be monitored, and sometimes this is necessary. Most also know how to measure their pulse in the conventional way by finding it in various parts of the body. Less commonly known is the meaning of oximetry, which is the way to determine how much oxygen the blood contains. Equipment has been designed to measure oxygen levels, such as the wrist pulse oximeter.

The reason why oximeters may be used is when someone's oxygenation is unstable. They are a device that are mostly found in various departments of hospitals. They are common in emergency rooms, and in intensive and critical care rooms. However, oximeters have also been developed that are ideal for home usage, as they fit around a patient's arm, and look just like a wristwatch.

Oximeters in the form of wristwatches are compact, but effective. They work in a similar way to those used at hospitals. Conveniently, they can remember data for up to eighty hours, at which time they will need to be cleared in order to be used again. The data can either be saved elsewhere, or removed from the device. These special oximeters are considered as safe to use by the FDA.

The wristwatch oximeters are usually used on one's finger, but on the earlobe or on a toe are common places too. The device does not hurt in any way, as it is non-invasive, and works with red and infrared lights. They are ideally bought by people who wish to monitor their levels of oxygen during sleep, study or exercise, or because they have asthma.

Although a large amount of the light is taken in by body tissue, the bit that is not will show the hemoglobin saturation levels. The reading is shown in a percentage, and a healthy level of oxygen is indicated at between ninety-five and ninety-eight percent. It is still fine if the level of oxygen reaches as low as ninety percent, but below this level the patient will need to receive oxygen for respiratory distress relief. The body's cells are unable to function properly when oxygen levels are this low.

Oximeters give quite accurate readings, but there are certain things that cause unreliable readings. There must be a strong pulse rate in order for the device to work. Patients who have an irregular heartbeat will not be able to get an accurate reading. A patient will also struggle if they have a very weak heart rate.

The patient who requires the test should also not be moving around, as motion could cause the device to give an unreliable response. The light is disturbed by movement. The device should not be used around other very bright lights, as this could effect its own light. One reading is often not sufficient to determine an accurate level of oxygen.

The wrist pulse oximeter is equipped with a long-lasting battery, and can be used with various software programs that are readily available. The device can also be used when you are wearing nail polish, regardless of the color. They are usually purchased with at least a year warranty.




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