A pulse oximeter is an electronic device that is used to measure the oxygen saturation of hemoglobin in arterial blood, and monitor pulse rate. This is helpful when you are trying to keep a patient’s oxygen saturation levels between 90% and 94% or keep their pulse rate within the normal range. Pulse oximeters are also used by people who are at risk for hypoxemia, ischemic heart disease, and atherosclerosis.
In the past, this measurement was taken using a handheld monitor. However, portable monitors are not that accurate because they are not able to provide a full range of measurements. They also require a lot of training for the person to use them. The good news is that there is now a range of portable monitors that are more accurate and easier to use than the old ones. They can measure the pulse rate and oxygen saturation levels and some are also connected to a smartphone app. In this article, we are going to explain what a pulse oximeter is, why they are important, and how it can help you monitor your health.
What is a pulse oximeter?
A pulse oximeter is a small device that measures the oxygen saturation and pulse rate of a patient. It's used by doctors, nurses, and medical professionals to check heart rate and blood oxygen levels. In the event of a medical emergency, its readings help medical professionals determine if the patient has a life-threatening condition. It's also used to monitor the progress of treatments and check the effectiveness of medical interventions.
Why does a pulse oximeter matter?
Pulse oximeters are a vital tool in the medical field. They are used to measure the oxygen saturation and pulse rate in a patient’s blood. When a pulse oximeter is used, it is often used in conjunction with other medical equipment. For example, a pulse oximeter is often used in conjunction with a blood pressure cuff. This is because a pulse oximeter is often calibrated to the same size as a blood pressure cuff. So, in order to get the most out of your pulse oximeter, you will need to calibrate it with a blood pressure cuff.
How can a pulse oximeter help you?
Pulse oximeters are used for a variety of purposes, one of which is to check your oxygen saturation and pulse rate. These are important factors in determining your health. For example, if your oxygen saturation is too low, you may be experiencing a heart attack; and if your pulse rate is too fast, it may be a sign of a stroke. There are many different types of pulse oximeters, each offering a unique feature.
The best type of pulse oximeter to use is one that allows you to take your own blood pressure and heart rate readings. This is because the readings are more accurate. In addition, the readings can be done in a shorter period of time. The readings are also easier to interpret. To use a pulse oximeter, you will need to wear a finger clip and place the sensor on your finger. Then, you will need to take your own pulse and heart rate. The readings are then displayed on the screen of the pulse oximeter.
Conclusion
Pulse oximeters are a great way to check your oxygen saturation and pulse rate. They are relatively easy to use and are small enough to fit in your pocket. The best kind of pulse oximeter to use is a wrist-based pulse oximeter. This type of oximeter is convenient and easy to use, especially when you are in the middle of an activity. There are a few things to keep in mind when choosing a pulse oximeter. First, you should consider the size. A wrist-based pulse oximeter is bigger and more convenient than a pocket-based oximeter.
It is essential to consider the size of the device when purchasing so that it is not too big or too small. Next, you should consider the accuracy of the oximeter. Many pulse oximeters have a margin of error of around 10-20%. This means that the device may be off by 10-20% when it is checking your oxygen saturation. You should also consider the price. A good quality pulse oximeter will cost you a little more money.
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Best Pulse Oximeter - Reviews
The Best
Innovo Deluxe iP900AP Fingertip Pulse Oximeter with Plethysmograph and Perfusion Index (Off-White with Black)
About this product
- ACCURATE AND RELIABLE - Consistently beat other pulse oximeters in terms of accuracy and reliability during clinical tests.
- PLETHYMOSGRAPH AND PERFUSION INDEX - Tells you if you are taking your SpO2 and Pulse Rate properly. No more second guessing if the readings are reliable or why the pulse oximeter is not giving you a reading.
- UPGRADED HARDWARE AND SOFTWARE – Improved with internal hardware and software upgrades that boost performance. The latest version of the iP900AP model features an auditory alarm (which can be muted for convenience) to warn you when your SpO2 and Pulse Rate are beyond set limits, auditory beeps for every detected pulse, and adjustable display brightness.
- SPORT ENTHUSIASTS - Suitable for mountain climbers, skiers, bikers, aviators, or anyone interested in measuring their SpO2 and pulse rate while on the move. You should only use the pulse oximeter before or after your exercise. Also, you must remain stationary while the pulse oximeter measures your pulse and SpO2
- READY TO USE OUT OF THE BOX - Include 2X AAA BATTERIES and a LANYARD for convenience.
Battery life can go up to 40 hours. Results appear in 10 seconds for oxygen saturation and heart rate.
Some customers mentioned accuracy and durability are questionable.
Our Thoughts - A good price and made to deliver readings. Great for athletes and for normal people exercising.
Very good
Fingertip Pulse Oximeter, Blood Oxygen Saturation Monitor (SpO2) with Pulse Rate Measurements and Pulse Bar Graph, Portable Digital Reading LED Display, Batteries, and Carry Case Included.
About this product
- ACCURATE, RELIABLE, & QUICK READINGS - Clinically tested and proven consistent results. Receive blood SpO2, Pulse Rate, and Pulse Strength results within 8 to 10 seconds on large digital red LED Pulse Oximeter display.
- SUITABLE FOR ALL AGES - Smart design allows for a range of finger sizes to fit into the Pulse Oximeter finger chamber, designed with latex-free silicone material.
- PORTABLE & EASY TO USE - Lightweight and compact, easy to handle and to carry with you for results at home or outdoors. Pulse Oximeter is for sport and aviation use only. This device is ideal for use during sports activities such as mountain climbing, running, biking, etc.
- LOADED WITH ACCESSORIES - Package includes 2-AAA Batteries to power up the Pulse Oximeter, Case to protect the Pulse Oximeter, Neck/Wrist Cord, User Manual, plus no-hassle 1-year manufacturer warranty
It gives a fairly good level of accuracy. Easy to calibrate. Affordable and gives and gives results fast.
Some customers mentioned that the accuracy and durability are questionable. Has one year warranty but very difficult to contact the company.
Our Thoughts - An average pulse oximeter that is worth considering. Small and lightweight, very easy to read with large numbers, inexpensive, and comfortable on the finger.
Good Value
Zacurate Pro Series 500DL Fingertip Pulse Oximeter Blood Oxygen Saturation Monitor with Silicon Cover, Batteries, and Lanyard (Royal Black).
About this product
- ACCURATE AND RELIABLE - Accurately determine your SpO2 (blood oxygen saturation levels), pulse rate, and pulse strength in 10 seconds and display it conveniently on a large digital LED display.
- FULL SPO2 VALUE - The ONLY LED pulse oximeter that can read and display up to 100% for SpO2.
- SPORT/HEALTH ENTHUSIASTS - For sports enthusiasts like mountain climbers, skiers, bikers, or anyone interested in measuring their SpO2 and pulse rate. SpO2 and Pulse Rate now faces instead of away from the user for an easy read.
- ACCOMMODATES WIDE RANGE OF FINGER SIZES - Finger chamber with SMART Spring System. Works for ages 12 and above.
- LOADED WITH ACCESSORIES - Include 2X AAA BATTERIES that will allow the pulse oximeter to be used right out of the box, a SILICON COVER to protect your pulse oximeter from dirt and physical damage, and a LANYARD for convenience. Comes with 12 months WARRANTY and USA-based technical phone support.
Super easy to read and make it easy to spot any changes. It’s a trusted pulse oximeter at a great price for home users.
Some customers mentioned accuracy and durability are not as expected.
Our Thoughts - May not be good enough for professional medical use.
Very Good
mibest OLED Finger Pulse Oximeter, O2 Meter, Dual Color White/Black.
About this product
- Accurate and Reliable: Accurately determine your SpO2 (blood oxygen saturation levels) and pulse rate and strength in 4 directions, 6 display modes, and 10 levels of adjustable brightness.
- Plethysmography Waveform: The SpO2 Waveform measures the change in the volume of arterial blood with each pulse beat which helps determine the optimal time to take a reading.
- Compact and Long Battery Life: The oxygen saturation finger monitor is lightweight, easy to carry, and accommodates a wide range of finger sizes. 40 hours battery life and automatic power off in 8 seconds.
- Out of Box Ready: Our portable oxygen saturation machine comes with an instruction manual, 2 AAA alkaline batteries, Neck lanyard (detachable and adjustable length) you'll be ready to use your portable oxygen sensor right out of the box.
- Sports Enthusiasts: This device is for Sports and Aviation use only and is not intended for medical use. It's great for mountain climbers, bikers, trainers, skiers, aviators, and general sports enthusiasts to spot-check SpO2 on the fly.
Gives oxygen readings fast, is lightweight, and is portable. Tested with a doctor's pulse oximeter and gave the same readings.
Some customers mentioned that it's difficult to contact the seller. Others said that it has a short life. It doesn't work on young children.
Our Thoughts - If you just want to take a reading for medical purposes during normal people activities, this one will probably work well for you as it was shown to be accurate. However, if you want to take a reading during or after exercise, you might look elsewhere.
Good
CHOICEMMED Sky Blue Finger Pulse Oximeter - Blood Oxygen Saturation Monitor - SPO2 Pulse Oximeter - Portable Oxygen Sensor with Included Batteries - O2 Saturation Monitor with Carry Pouch.
About this product
- ACCURATE AND RELIABLE: ChoiceMMed oxygen meter finger pulse oximeter accurately determines your SpO2 in 10 seconds and can read and display up to 100% on a larger LED display.
- EASY TO USE: Our pulse monitor is easy to use and has an efficient One Button Operation. The SPO2 Sensor will spot-check and display in real-time SpO2, PR, and Pulse bar graphs which is great for checking your pulse signal strength.
- OUT OF BOX READY: Our portable oxygen saturation machine comes with a durable protective pouch (with loop for belt), an instruction manual, 2 AAA alkaline batteries, Neck lanyard (detachable and adjustable length) you'll be ready to use your portable oxygen sensor right out of the box.
- COMPACT AND LONG BATTERY LIFE: The oxygen saturation finger monitor is lightweight, easy to carry, and accommodates a wide range of finger sizes. 40 hours battery life and automatic power off in 8 seconds.
- SPORT ENTHUSIASTS: This device is for Sports and Aviation use only and is not intended for medical use. It's great for mountain climbers, bikers, trainers, aviators, and general sports enthusiasts to spot-check SpO2 on the fly.
Great medical addition to have on hand. Nice to know that one is getting enough oxygen.
Some customers mentioned that it didn't work right out of the box. Others said that it has a short life.
Our Thoughts - This one has to be squarely on the finger or it doesn't work properly. not for professional medical use.
Good
WRINERY Fingertip Pulse Oximeter, Oxygen Monitor Fingertip, Oxygen Saturation Monitor, O2 Saturation Monitor, OLED Portable Oximetry with Batteries, Lanyard (Rose gold-black)
About this product
- High-Definition and Clear OLED Display -- Improved and updated, the WRINERY pulse oximeter presents you with reading data on a vivid and sharp OLED display.
- Accurate & Reliable -- WRINERY innovated fingertip pulse oximeter provides an accurate and reliable measurement method for oxygen level in the blood and reads the pulse rate data and O2 saturation within 8 seconds. It is highly recommended to use the device in a stationary condition while not in motion for accurate reading data.
- Shooting Your Trouble -- Designed and innovated for sports fans like mountain climbers, skiers, bikers, and people who need or are interested in measuring their SpO2 and pulse rate easily. Portable and compact size for easy carrying, and accommodates a wide range of finger sizes from young people to the elder.
- Cost-effective -- The unique pulse oximeter fingertip comes with a convenient protective case. Each package includes 1 x WRINERY branded pulse oximeter, 1 x Protective case, 1 x Hook, 1 x Lanyard, 2 x AAA batteries, and 1 x User manual. Under standard processes, it is reliable and durable.
- Easy to Carry and Great for Traveling -- Neck/wrist cord, easy carrying hard case with belt loop. While traveling, your body can often take time to adjust to new altitudes. This meter will allow you to check your oxidation levels, to ensure that your body is properly acclimating to a new environment.
- Important Notice: This device is intended for sports and aviation use only, not for medical use. Ideally suitable for mountain climbers, skiers, bikers, and aviators.
Definitely handy & small enough to fit in a pocket. Easy to check oxygen levels, and it's perfect and easy to read. Checked with the clinic and the readings were almost the same.
Some customers mentioned durability is not as expected. Others said that it's cheap and takes too long to get the readings.
Our Thoughts - Not the greatest pulse oximeter but it seems to do the job well.
