What Do the Readings on A Fingertip Pulse Oximeter Mean?

 


FingertipPulse Oximeters have become popular ever since the occurrence of Coronavirus Pandemic in US. It is basically a small, portable medical device that measures Oxygen Saturation levels in the blood.

The non-invasive medical tool is a spot-check monitor which helps to quickly determine how efficient the blood from the heart and lungs is being sent to other body organs.

A reading of the pulse oximeter indicates the percentage of blood which has been saturated, known as the Sp02 level. Studies of reliability have demonstrated mixed results. There is not much guidance on how to choose one. However, several doctors are advising patients to get fingertip pulse oximeters for use.

You can also check our guide - The Correct Method to Use A Fingertip Pulse Oximeter

Pulse Oximeter Readings: A Comprehensive Guide

What exactly does a Pulse Oximeter Measure?

A pulse oximeter can measure two things:

  • Blood Oxygen Saturation (SpO2): The measurement indicates the percentage of blood saturated. Simply, it is an estimation of the oxygen amount that the red blood cells usually carry.
  • Pulse Rate: Pulse rate indicates a heart rate and consists of the number of times a heart beats per minute.

How to Understand Pulse Oximeter Readings?

SpO2 represents the blood oxygen saturation levels as a vital percentage that the pulse oximeters show the patient.

Essentially, it shows a reading of the pulse rate ranging from 60-100, indicating a normal heartbeat. When a SpO2 ranges between 95-100% values, it is classified as usual. However, when the value is less than 95%, it indicates underlying medical conditions requiring immediate evaluation.

The lower blood saturation levels would suggest the following health conditions needing primary medical condition at the earliest:

ü  Difficulties in breathing

ü  Infection in the lung

ü  Blockage of the airways

ü  Poor blood circulation levels

You Must Bear In Mind,

The fingertip pulse oximeters available in the market, whether they are “economical" or "top-of-the-range," have an accuracy level quoted by the manufacturer. The values range as either + or – 2%. It is crucial to remember that one must not focus too much on this single "cut-off percentage" figure.

Furthermore, you must keep in mind that oxygen saturation measurements would differ slightly from one part of the body to another. The two most popular sites in a human body to take pulse oximetry readings are fingers and toes.

Both the fingers and toes are recognized as the human body's extremes as they are furthest from the heart and lungs. The readings would be 1% or 2% lower as compared to the earlobe or forehead. These are much more central parts of the human body. Thus, it would help if you remember these factors before using fingertip pulse oximeters.

What are the Vital Tips for Accuracy?

Usually, the readings of the pulse oximeter are accurate. However, some factors can affect the pulse oximeter's functioning and thus, can result in errors. Below are said factors that need to be considered before utilizing a pulse oximeter to achieve accurate results:

  •           Ensure that the finger is inserted into the device properly
  •          You need to sit still while the readings are taken
  •          The positioning of the probe in a correct manner is essential
  •          Removal of any nail polish, henna dye, or tattoos is also required
  •          Warming up the fingers is essential before the start of the test

Wrapping it Up

The majority of people do not need to monitor their oxygen levels frequently. Only those suffering from health problems require regular checkups. In this way, the less invasive pulse oximeters are quite useful, as opposed to invasive ABG.

Although there is a certain margin of error, still pulse oximeters are entirely accurate enough. If your doctor needs a much more precise measurement, follow up with an ABG test.

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