How to choose a pulse oximeter?
In difficult situations and significant experiences, there is often a need to monitor the work of the lungs and heart. After all, the restriction of oxygen in the body can be fraught with the end for other organs. Modern medical equipment makes it possible to monitor the level of oxygen in the blood, as well as to measure the pulse. One of the most popular devices for this is a pulse oximeter. What types of use and how to choose a pulse oximeter will be discussed later in this article.
Characteristics and varieties of pulse oximeters
What is called a pulse oximeter? It is a device that helps to monitor the level of oxygen in the blood and shows the heart rate. The design has two elements - a monitor and a sensor. Today there is a whole direction - pulse oximetry. Previously, he was familiar only with surgical interventions, measuring slow breathing under anesthesia. Deviations were notified on the display and beeps. Now pulse oximetry is used in several directions:
- Oxygen therapy;
- On and after operations;
- Monitoring of chronic diseases;
- For newborns;
- Obstetrics.
In addition, the situation (oxygen level) can be measured at home. This became possible with the invention of portable pulse oximeters. What other types of devices exist?
- Stationary version, has large dimensions. Used in surgery and intensive care;
- Portable (mobile) pulse oximeter. Have several options depending on the fixation: belt, hand and finger devices;
- Sleep monitoring devices. Respond to disruptions of breathing during sleep.
The principle of operation of the device
How the pulse oximeter works is of interest to many people with different symptoms of disease. It is possible to adjust its work and to carry out measurements in house conditions independently. The device has simple elements - sensors and monitor. So, the sensor is attached to the ear, finger or nose. It has two light sources - red and infrared. They use rays to penetrate the fabric, and the detector is not fixed absorbed light. Then the data will be displayed on the monitor. In addition, the pulse status will be displayed.
The device has built-in memory, measurement data is stored and can be moved to a computer. For newborns use a pulse oximeter that is fixed on the leg.
Modern portable options are more convenient to use.
Often the question arises, how to use a pulse oximeter on your finger? And this is the most practical option for home use that works with batteries. The mobile device is easy to use if you follow this sequence:
- To check the charge of the pulse oximeter. A low number can further distort the result;
- Turn on the appliance and wait for 2 minutes to load;
- Take a comfortable position, because the measurement can not move;
- Lock the device (depending on the type) and wait for 30 minutes;
- Read the data on the monitor;
- Do not leave the appliance on and keep away from sun and dust.
Criteria for selection of pulse oximeter
In the market of medical equipment pulse oximeters are available in many versions. For the right choice it is necessary to consult a doctor. The specialist will be able to determine the appropriate type of device and the individual rate of its performance. To buy a pulse oximeter should be based on the following criteria:
- Purpose of the device. Its one-time or permanent use;
- Place of installation and method of fixation;
- Additional functions: heart rate measurement, memory, alert indicators beyond the norm.
In the article, we reviewed the modern pulse oximeter, how to use the device and its main characteristics. The modern device is an excellent solution for monitoring the level of oxygen in the blood, both in the hospital and at home.