Content On Recording Pulse Oximeter

By Rosella Campbell


Pulse oximetry is a technique used on patients to monitor oxygen saturation in the blood. A recording pulse oximeter is the medical gadget used for this purpose. The device monitors changes in oxygen saturation and notifies the patient or physician when it falls below certain levels. This prevents commas or death through fast medical intervention.

The working of these devices bases on the principle of spectrophotometry. This principle depends on how the red and infrared lights are absorbed by oxygen-filled and deoxygenated blood cells in the body. These absorption rates are taken by the device and then processed by the main machine to give new readings after every 0.5 or 1 second. This high frequency at which readings are generated ensures high accuracy in the device.

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.

Besides gauging level of O2 concentration in blood, oximeters have many other applications. First, oximetry can be an alternative or replacement for blood gas analysis unless if acid-base state or PaCO2 is required. This technique is also simpler to perform, less painful, and costs less in comparison to several others. The level of accuracy is also higher especially if a patient is conscious. Recorded values set standards and are useful in determining variations.

Oximeters also prevent wastage of oxygen supplied to patients by keeping usage only to required levels. Intrapartum fetal monitoring and neonatal care are the other areas of usage. Use in neonatal care and intrapartum fetal monitoring are not developed and standardized fully but soon they will. First aid in modern ambulances is provided by these devices. GP kits are progressively getting 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 capability of recording oximeters to record readings raises their prices above those of other models. Costs are dictated by the number of additional functionalities in the gadget. Purchases may be made from shops that sell medical apparatus.




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