Content On Recording Pulse Oximeter

By Rosella Campbell


Pulse oximetry is a measurement method used on patients to monitor O2 saturation in blood. This monitoring is done using a recording pulse oximeter. The gadget monitors and records any changes in the degree of oxygen concentration in blood cells and alerts the doctor. Notification can be in form of a sound and only happens when the level falls too low. Early medical intervention can therefore be done following the alerts.

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 determining oxygen saturation in blood cells, oximeters can be used in many other situations. First, blood gas analysis may be replaced with oximetry except in situations where PaCO2 or acid-base state is needed. When compared to other techques, oximetry is less painful, costs less, and is simpler to perform. In cases where the patient is conscious, this method has a high level of accuracy. Recorded values are used as standards and can be utilized in determining variations.

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 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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