5.2K views · 53 reactions | Pulse oximetry is a quick test that measures the amount of oxygen in your blood. It shows whether your heart and lungs supply enough to meet your body's needs. How to use a pulse oximeter at home: | WebMD | Facebook

What is a pulse oximeter, what do they do and should you buy one? | Which?

How does Pulse oximeter work? Pulse oximetry is a non-invasive and painless test that measures your oxygen saturation level, or the oxygen levels in your blood. During a pulse oximetry reading, a small clamp-like device is placed on a finger, earlobe, or toe. Small beams of light pass through the blood in the finger, measuring the amount of oxygen. It does this by measuring changes of light absorption in oxygenated or deoxygenated blood. This is a painless process. The pulse oximeter will thus b

When a monitor does not read SpO2, common factors include poor sensor placement, low perfusion, motion artifacts, or low hemoglobin levels. To troubleshoot, ensure the sensor is properly placed, check for adequate circulation, or try a different finger or toe. In case the monitor still fails, alternatives like a handheld pulse oximeter or arterial blood gas (ABG) test can help. A plethysmograph visualizes blood volume changes, useful in assessing oxygen levels. Vasospasm, constriction of blood v