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Thursday, January 16, 2014

The Wrist Pulse Oximeter For Home Use

By Harriett Crosby


Adults are aware of the fact that their heart rate can be monitored, and sometimes this is necessary. Most also know how to measure their pulse in the conventional way by finding it in various parts of the body. Less commonly known is the meaning of oximetry, which is the way to determine how much oxygen the blood contains. Equipment has been designed to measure oxygen levels, such as the wrist pulse oximeter.

When there is a worry that someone's oxygen levels could fall too low, oximeters will need to be used. Medical facilities are equipped with such appliances, and usually have them fitted in various sections, such as the intensive care and casualty areas. The oximeters that have been designed in the form of a wristwatch are more useful for persons who are not in a hospital environment.

The oximeters that can be used at home are of a convenient size, and are easy to operate. They are also quite reliable, and are able to store information for more than three days. You will just need to clear the device of stored data when the memory is full, otherwise it will not work. If you are considering buying a medical device such as this one, you can feel rest assured that it is safe to use, as it has been accepted under the requirements of the FDA.

The wristwatch oximeters are usually used on one's finger, but on the earlobe or on a toe are common places too. The device does not hurt in any way, as it is non-invasive, and works with red and infrared lights. They are ideally bought by people who wish to monitor their levels of oxygen during sleep, study or exercise, or because they have asthma.

Although a large amount of the light is taken in by body tissue, the bit that is not will show the hemoglobin saturation levels. The reading is shown in a percentage, and a healthy level of oxygen is indicated at between ninety-five and ninety-eight percent. It is still fine if the level of oxygen reaches as low as ninety percent, but below this level the patient will need to receive oxygen for respiratory distress relief. The body's cells are unable to function properly when oxygen levels are this low.

Oximeters give quite accurate readings, but there are certain things that cause unreliable readings. There must be a strong pulse rate in order for the device to work. Patients who have an irregular heartbeat will not be able to get an accurate reading. A patient will also struggle if they have a very weak heart rate.

The patient who requires the test should also not be moving around, as motion could cause the device to give an unreliable response. The light is disturbed by movement. The device should not be used around other very bright lights, as this could effect its own light. One reading is often not sufficient to determine an accurate level of oxygen.

A good battery that can last for many hours is attached to the wrist pulse oximeter. It is not affected by nail decorations, and its warranty allows the customer peace of mind with their purchase. It is also easy to acquire the necessary software for the device.




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