How Does Pulse Oximetry Work?

Pulse oximetry allows a patient’s heart rate and blood oxygen level to be measured in a painless and non-invasive way. Although there are several types of devices to measure these important aspects of patient health, all pulse oximeters use the same method to measure levels of oxygen in the blood.

Usage, Placement, and Benefit of Pulse Oximeters

These devices are used on patients with existing heart or lung conditions, as well as those who are experiencing shortness of breath. These devices can be placed in several locations on the body, including the toes, ears, fingers, and forehead to obtain a reading.

They are able to quickly measure the amount of oxygen in red blood cells, which offers several benefits, including helping health professionals determine next steps for treatment. The device is used for patients with a range of conditions, including COPD, heart failure, lung cancer, and asthma.

The pulse oximeter is also used to determine whether or not a patient will require oxygen supplementation, and whether or not medications need to be added or adjusted for a particular treatment program.

How It Works

When different wavelengths of light are passed through red blood cells, the way in which they interact with that light determines how much oxygen they contain. In the case of pulse oximeters, both infrared and red light are shone through the skin. The amount of each type of light that red blood cells absorb determines oxygen saturation.

Different absorption rates are based on whether or not hemoglobin, the protein which carries oxygen, is oxygenated or not. If oxygenated, hemoglobin will absorb more infrared than red light, and low oxygen hemoglobin more red than infrared light.

Oxygen Saturation and Pulse in Seconds

Pulse oximeters offer an incredibly fast, easy, and convenient way to measure a patient’s heart rate and blood oxygen saturation. In just a few seconds after placing the device on their finger or another area, a complete and accurate reading can be obtained. The most accurate readings are produced by high-quality pulse oximetry analyzers.

The Best Analyzers for the Best Results

When it comes to producing accurate readings quickly, certain types of oximetry analyzers are more efficient than others. For example, the Masimo Rad-97 Co-Oximeter is a key device that’s used by leading medical professionals around the world.

The Rad-97 device provides a bright LCD display in high resolution for easy reading. It also includes the standard measurements for Sp02, Pi, Pulse rate, and Pvi and allows for upgrades to Rainbow SET Measurements.

The Right Supplier Is Crucial

Ordering the right equipment for your needs is your top priority. Unless your supplier understands this, finding what you need can be challenging. Medical Device Depot understands the importance of not only being able to make your needed equipment available but at a price that’s on target with your budget.

We ensure that you always get the best price and warranty for your pulse oximetry and other equipment. Call us today to learn more: 1-877-646-3300.