The perfect guide for buying a pulse oximeter

 

Before you set out to buy the best finger pulse oximeter, let us look at what it is and why you may require it. It is an electronic device, attachable to your fingertip, that measures the saturation of oxygen in your red blood cells. Doctors recommend this at-home device for individuals with any health condition that can affect oxygen saturation in their blood, e.g., chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder, congenital heart defects, asthma and others. Much like a home-use thermometer, a pulse oximeter is used to monitor health conditions at home as it is safe, easy, quick and painless.

 

Finger pulse oximeters are becoming more and more common in households today – not only for people with pre-existing conditions but also for health-conscious individuals who proactively want to keep a check on their wellbeing. There are innumerable brands in the market selling finger pulse oximeters. How do you select the one best suited for your needs? Read on for a comprehensive guide.

 

Accuracy

This is the most important feature to consider when buying a finger pulse oximeter. Ideally, you should consult a doctor or medical professional for a referral. You can also test the accuracy by having a manual reading taken simultaneously with the device’s reading, and comparing the two.

 

Display

This goes hand-in-hand with the accuracy of your pulse oximeter. The display of the readings should be clear, bright and legible, even for the elderly.

 

Simplicity and convenience

Finger pulse oximeters are usually designed to be as easy to use as possible. Commonly, the device simply clamps over your fingertip and is removed once the reading is done. You would want to avoid ones that involve complicated instructions.

 

Universality

A good oximeter should work equally well for different kinds of patients, regardless of their skin tones, perfusion levels and finger sizes.

 

Portability

If you have been recommended to use a finger pulse oximeter, the device must be lightweight and portable so that you can take readings whenever required.

 

Post-purchase service and customer support

While a finger pulse oximeter is meant to let you monitor your oxygen levels independent of healthcare professionals, the device itself might require maintenance, recalibration or even replacement. This is why you should select should offer easy customer support and guidance.

 

When to contact a hospital

The oxygen saturation of more than 89% is needed to keep you healthy. While an isolated reading of less than this may not be damaging, consistent instances of lowered oxygen saturation levels are. If you note such readings repeatedly, it is time to seek medical help. CARE Hospitals has outstanding medical professionals with proven medical expertise in the field of pulmonary medicine and advanced respiratory care, capable of performing complex diagnostic and therapeutic procedures.

 

 

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