An oximeter is a medical device that measures the amount of oxygen in the blood. It does this by shining two different colors of light through your finger and measuring how much of each color is absorbed by your blood. The amount of oxygen in your blood is called your oxygen saturation, and it is measured as a percentage. Normal oxygen saturation is 95% or higher.
To use an oximeter, you will need to place it on your finger. The oximeter will have two prongs that go into your finger. Once the oximeter is in place, it will start to measure your oxygen saturation and heart rate. The results will be displayed on the oximeter’s screen.
Oximeters are often used in hospitals and clinics, but they can also be used at home. If you have a chronic health condition that affects your oxygen levels, your doctor may recommend that you use an oximeter at home. Oximeters can also be helpful for people who are at risk for low oxygen levels, such as people with COPD, asthma, or heart disease.
Here are the steps on how to use an oximeter:
- Wash your hands with soap and water.
- Find a comfortable place to sit or lie down.
- Place the oximeter on your index finger.
- Make sure that the oximeter is snug but not too tight.
- Wait for the oximeter to start measuring your oxygen saturation and heart rate.
- Once the oximeter has finished measuring, take note of your results.
- Remove the oximeter from your finger.
Here are some tips for using an oximeter:
- Make sure that your finger is warm before using the oximeter.
- Avoid using the oximeter if you have any cuts or wounds on your finger.
- Do not use the oximeter if you are wearing nail polish.
- If you are having trouble getting an accurate reading, try using a different finger.
- If you have any concerns about your oxygen levels, talk to your doctor.
Oximeters are a safe and easy way to monitor your oxygen levels at home. If you have a chronic health condition or are at risk for low oxygen levels, an oximeter can be a helpful tool for managing your health.
Video Explanation
In the case of COVID, it is very important to keep monitoring the oxygen saturation level of the patient blood. A pulse oximeter helps in achieving that without collecting blood samples. A must-have in the first-aid kit at home.
Read more here – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pulse_oximetry#Indication
