Do you know what a Pulse Oximeter is? Do you know if you ever was on one or did someone used one on you? Or do you know where it is used the most? In the medical world this is a very important device that is used to monitor patient or clients oxygen level in their blood. It is often used in the emergency, intensive care, ICU, recovery and also patient or client rooms. Some Doctor’s office used them also.
Pulse Oximeter is normally clipped on the finger, thumb and sometimes on the earlobe to monitor the oxygen saturation of the blood. However, in case the pulse is not strong in those areas, the toe or the bridge of the nose can be used. The oximeter does not monitor it directly, but indirectly as composed to the blood test itself. This test procedure is quicker and easier than in the past when a complex blood test would have been necessary. While sitting still on laying down the fingertip pulse oximeter is clipped on and the lead wires connected to the monitor which will display a digital reading of the oxygen saturation level. Normally there is a beep and then there will be a digital reading or printout so that your Doctor or Nursing Staff can keep track of the results.
The use of the oximeter is dependent on the pulse of the person and the use of infrared lights. If not handled properly, it will produce inaccurate results. The oxygen level should always be in the high 90s particularly a 95% since this is the desired oxygen-blood ratio. It is important to know the oxygen saturation level of a person whether or not he or she has a prior medical condition.
