Pulse Oximeter Buying Guide

 

The sheer technology of pulse oximeters have really come a long way. When it was launched for the first time in the 1970s, it weighed about 35lbs and was quite a clumsy, heavy device. However, today a pulse Oximeter only weighs a few ounces and what's best is, there are several types of pulse oximeters - ranging from the most sophisticated used in operating rooms to simple fingertip models. Considering the fact that the fingertip models are more widely used at homes, hospitals as well as emergency rooms for spot checks, these are sought to be the most convenient ones to use at home as well.

 

Some of the best and most trusted online medical stores such as Smart Medical Buyer offers a range of excellent pulse oximeters that are available at different price points. However, it is important to not base our decision on prices and brand names only. It is important to look through each one's features and specifications before you finally settle on to one.

 

Accuracy and reliability

First things first, the first and foremost purpose to be served by a pulse oximeter is to simply measure one's oxygen saturation (SpO2) and pulse rate. Hence, the primary selection criterion is to simply find one that consistently produces accurate results right within its operating range and one that is also reliable. Most pulse oximeters generally use similar mechanisms for reading data and mostly differ in how they are manufactured.

 

If you need an absolutely accurate reading, you must validate your pulse oximeter by comparing its results with others, such as those that are in your doctor's office or even medical clinics. Additionally, the accuracy of pulse oximeters are also affected by motion. So, if your hand trembles, you must make it a point to find a model that is a lot more tolerant to frequent hand movements while taking readings.

 

Ease of use

Fingertip pulse oximeter monitors are usually operated by inserting your finger into the sensor and then pressing just one button. They are not only easy to operate, but also quite convenient and accurate. However, it is important to make sure that the display is just large enough for you to read. Certain pulse oximeters can even display the data in different ways, making them all the more easy to read.

 

Sensor size

It is very important to first make sure that you can insert your finger comfortably in the sensor. Although this is normally not an issue for the clip-on types, for children and people with small hands - they can easily consider a paediatric pulse oximeter too.

 

One of the best things about this mini device is that it is absolutely painless. So, there is no way you might feel even the tiniest bit of pain or discomfort while measuring blood oxygen levels.

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