This video gives you helpful tips on how you can use a Pulse Oximeter at home for accurate readings. It explains the factors that affect the accuracy and tips on the correct use of Pulse Oximeter.

---- What is a Pulse Oximeter? ----

A pulse oximeter is a small, clip-like medical device. It attaches to a body part, most commonly to a finger. A pulse oximeter uses a non-invasive method for monitoring a person's blood oxygen saturation (as opposed to measuring oxygen saturation directly through a blood sample). It can rapidly detect even small changes in oxygen levels.

----- Factors Affecting Pulse Oximeter Accuracy -------

- Incorrect Positioning of the Finger

The finger should fit comfortably. It should not be too tight as it may restrict blood circulation. On the other hand, it should not be too loose for the device to fall off or allow outside light to interfere with the reading.

- Nail polish on fingernails or Long dirty fingernails

Nail polish or dirty nails can absorb the light emitted by the pulse oximeter and affect the accuracy of the test.

- Movement of hand while taking the reading

Movement of hand or shivering can result in an inaccurate reading.

- Cold hands and Poor Blood Circulation

Cold hands and fingers mean that the blood flow and circulation to your hand is low and may cause difficulty for the oximeter to detect a good pulse signal.

- Current Tobacco Use

A person who smokes heavily might cause their oxygen saturation to be measured at 8% higher.

- Skin Thickness and Skin Pigmentation

It has been found that dark skin or high pigmentation skin can result in overestimation of oxygen saturation, especially at low saturation levels.

- Using under a Direct Bright Light Source

Direct bright light in the room or bright sunlight can interfere and result in an inaccurate reading

------ Tips for taking Accurate Pulse Oximeter Readings at Home ------

- Always follow instructions from the device manufacturer on how to take a reading.
- Avoid taking the reading under a direct bright light source.
- Take the test reading preferably sitting.
- Make sure your hand is relaxed, warm, and below heart level.
- The hand should be steady and in a resting position.
- Preferably use the middle finger of your right hand. Remove any nail polish on the finger you are using.
- Insert your finger into the device and press the button to start taking the reading. Wait at least 30 to 60 seconds until the reading stops changing and displays one steady number.

---- Interpreting the Pulse Oximeter Reading ----

- A pulse oximeter reading is an estimate of blood oxygen saturation. For example, a pulse oximeter Oxyhemoglobin saturation (SpO2) of 90% may represent an arterial oxygen saturation (SaO2) of 86-94%.
- Normal oxygen levels are at least 95%. Some patients with chronic lung disease or sleep apnea can have normal levels of around 90%.
- If your SpO2 level is less than 95%, you need to visit a doctor, as it may be an indication that you may be suffering from hypoxia, a condition that requires observation and treatment.
- When possible, make diagnosis and treatment decisions based on trends in pulse oximeter readings over time, rather than absolute thresholds.

------ Pay attention to Other Symptoms of Low Oxygen Level -----
- Difficulty in breathing.
- Bluish color in nails, face, or lips.
- Fast or racing pulse rate.
- Tightness or pain in the chest.
- A cough that gets worse over time.
- A general feeling of discomfort and restlessness.


Read the blog article on this topic:
How to use a Pulse Oximeter Correctly - https://webmedy.com/blog/how-to-use-p...

Other related blog articles:
What is a Pulse Oximeter? - https://webmedy.com/blog/what-is-a-pu...

Top 5 Picks for Best Pulse Oximeter: https://webmedy.com/blog/best-pulse-o...

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