Pulse Oximeters

Questions & Answers for Pulse Oximeters

How much does a pulse oximeter cost?

You can purchase a pulse oximeter at a minimum cost of Rs 500-600. The price will increase as per the type, features, brand, etc.

Who needs pulse oximeters?

A pulse oximeter is used by people or patients having- chronic heart conditions and respiratory conditions, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma, Covid-19, allergies, etc.

What are the benefits of using a pulse oximeter?

Some benefits of using a pulse oximeter include:

• Observing oxygen saturation over time
• Warning to critically low oxygen levels, specifically in newborns
• Giving peace of mind to patients with cardiovascular conditions and chronic respiratory
• Determining the requirement for supplemental oxygen
• Checking oxygen saturation levels in patients under anesthesia
• Specifying dangerous side effects in people consuming drugs that affect oxygen saturation or breathing

What affects readings of pulse oximeters?

The following can affect the accuracy of pulse oximeter readings:

• Low blood pressure
• Anemia
• Skin with more pigment
• Intravascular dyes, which are used at  hospitals and diagnostic centers for certain tests
• Low body temperature

What is a healthy pulse oximeter measurement?

A normal read from a pulse oximeter falls within the range of 98 percent to 99 percent. Ans anything below 90 percent marks something wrong or more serious that needs to be urgently addressed.

How would you define a pulse oximeter?

A pulse oximeter is a small device used for monitoring the pulse rate and the oxygen saturation level in the body. This noninvasive tool clips onto a fingertip to measure how much oxygen is in a person’s blood. The device is often used in hospitals and clinics and can also be bought to use at home.

How blood oxygen levels are measured by a pulse oximeter?

A pulse oximeter works by passing a light beam through the fingertip (or earlobe), and then measuring the reflection of the light, how much light is transmitted through or reflected off from the sensor (present in the oximeter) on the other side. Then, by using a mathematical equation, the pulse oximeter is able to measure how much oxygen is present in the blood.

What are the types of pulse oximeter available?

There are three types of pulse oximeters. They are handheld oximeter, fingertip pulse oximeter, and fetal pulse oximeter.