Pulse oximetry is an entirely painless method of measuring your oxygen saturation levels. This test is crucial for determining the ability of the bloodstream to supply your body organs with the right amount of oxygen, essential for the healthy function of your organism.
Pulse oximetry is performed by using a device, called an oximeter, available in various types, convenient for medical and personal use. In case you need to check or track your hemoglobin saturation, you can purchase a pulse oximeter for home use.
The following tips will help you purchase the best one for your needs.
Have a consultation with your doctor
The initial thing to do prior to purchasing an oximeter would be consulting with your doctor. He/ She is the right person to determine the type of device you need in accordance with your medical condition. For instance, in case you intend to use this instrument for the sole purpose of occasionally measuring your oxygen saturation, then a finger oximeter would be the appropriate choice.
However, if your doctor has to track your oxygen levels at all times, then the wrist model would be the perfect alternative, as it provides constant monitoring. In case your medical condition requires heart rate measurement, your doctor would advise you to purchase a model with a pulse monitor. Make sure you follow its recommendations, as there is no other person more familiar with your health condition.
Check all the models
Although the core function of all oximeters is measuring oxygen levels in one’s bloodstream, there’re in fact different models, each designed for a specific use. For example, the clip-on model is most frequently purchased for home use, owing to its small size and portability. You’re only supposed to attach it to your finger and wait for the results to appear on the screen.
Another commonly used variant is definitely the wrist-sensor model, convenient for constant tracking. It’s in the form of a watch, worn on your wrist and connected to the probe on your finger. This instrument helps doctors to monitor the condition of their patients, suffering from the chronic disease without staying in the hospital. Click here for some tips on using your pulse oximeter correctly.
On the other hand, the handheld and tabletop instruments are predominantly used by hospitals, considering their big size. However, they are undoubtedly more accurate than the portable ones, working on the same principle of attaching the probe to the index finger of the patient, only this time the probe and the screen are connected by a cable.
Consider the variety of features
Apart from choosing the type of instrument, you’re also supposed to select the features that are convenient for you. For instance, if you want to be absolutely certain in the accuracy of the result, make sure you choose a model with a light that turns on every time there is an obstruction in the measurement process.
Another useful feature is undoubtedly the alarm. Some devices feature an alarm that sounds when your oxygen levels are dangerously low. Also, make sure you purchase a device with long battery life, particularly if you intend to use it for constant monitoring.
Test the device
In order to check if your oximeter shows accurate results, take the instrument to your doctor and compare it with the one in its office. If the readings are identical, then the instrument is fully functional and ready to be used.
However, in case your instrument’s readings differ from the ones of the doctor, there is no other alternative, but taking the product back to the vendor. Anyhow, in order to avoid any problems with the return procedure, make sure you purchase a model with a solid return policy.
Use it correctly
There are several rules to abide when using your oximeter so as to provide accurate readings. Firstly, you’re supposed to wash your hands properly, as even the slightest dirt can get in the way of the light, emitted by the device. Also, female users must remember to remove their nail polish, as once again the light will be obstructed by the polish.
Furthermore, don’t expose the device to direct sunlight, as its light might be influenced by the sun rays, thus resulting in a wrong reading. Also, you’re expected not to move during the measurement process, as any movement is likely to affect the scan. Your hands need to be warm in order for the scan to be successful, as cold hands indicate insufficient bloodstream. Visit the following link: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pulse_oximetry, to learn more about the pulse oximetry method so as to be more prepared for using your newly-bought instrument.
Conclusion
Purchasing such a device can really help you keep track of your health.
It’s certainly worth the investment!