Information Concerning Recording Pulse Oximeter

By Rosella Campbell


Pulse oximetry is a non-invasive technique of monitoring the level of saturation of oxygen gas in the blood of a patient. This monitoring is done using a recording pulse oximeter. The device monitors the way oxygen saturation changes in the body and alerts the doctor or the patient when it falls under dangerously low levels. This allows for fast intervention hence preventing possible loss of life or commas.

Spectrophotometry is the main principle that the working of these gadgets bases on. This principle is dependent on the mode of absorption of red and infrared radiation by deoxygenated and oxygenated blood cells. These rates of absorption are recorded by the sensor and passed to the main machine for processing. The main machine gives fresh values at intervals of 0.5 or 1 seconds after processing. This high rate ensures high accuracy.

The device has two diodes that emit red and infrared radiations. The diodes are positioned directly opposite to their respective detectors which are separated by 5 to 10 millimeters of tissue. This is the reason why the device is placed on an organ that has thin tissues such as the finger or earlobe. The sensors are made in form of clips or wraps. Some studies reveal that earlobes are not very effective for measuring oxygen saturation inside the body.

These devices find use in any medical setting where blood oxygen saturation needs to be monitored at all times. Examples of such settings are operation rooms, recovery and treatment wards, emergency units, and intensive care. Accuracy of the readings is ensured by the patient staying calm and avoiding big moves. Devices that are able to record values are better because a history of values recorded within a given period can be maintained.

Oximeters have several uses besides measuring oxygen saturation. First, oximetry can serve as a replacement for blood gas analysis except in cases where acid-base state or PaCO2 is necessary. This method is also cheaper, easier to perform, and less painful compared to many others. It also has a higher level of accuracy especially in cases where the patient is conscious. Recorded values can be used to determine variations and to set standards in patients.

Oximeters also ensure economical use of oxygen supplied to patients in tanks hence avoiding wastage. Additional uses are in intrapartum fetal monitoring and neonatal care. However, use in intrapartum fetal monitoring and neonatal care are not fully developed and standardized but they will soon. Modern ambulances are equipped with these devices for first aid to patients. GP kits are also becoming equipped with oximeters.

In primary care, oximetry is used in diagnosis and management exacerbation of COPD chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in a place. The severity of an asthma attack can also be graded through this method. When the saturation level falls below 92 percent, it indicates that the asthma attack is life-threatening. The degree of seriousness of bronchiolitis in kids can also be assessed and cared for through oximetry.

The recording function in recording oximeters makes them to cost a little higher than other models. Prices vary according to the degree of complexity. Stores that sell medical equipment are among the places one can buy these devices from.




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