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Insights On Wrist Pulse Oximeters

By Marci Glover


Oxygen saturation (SpO2), which is the measure of oxyhaemoglobing in blood, is a very important measurement as it shows the extent of blood oxygenation. The measurement was undertaken traditionally by invasely taking blood samples. The method was rather in-ideal and unable to provide clinicians real-time measurements. The need for a noninvasive approach to measuring oxygen saturation resulted in the development of wrist pulse oximeters.

The modern oximeter technique is a non-invasive approach to the measurement of pulse rate and blood saturation in the arteries. Clinicians employ the method in ascertaining SpO2 in sedated, unconscious and unaesthetic individuals and in people that cannot control their own oxygen supply. Hospitals, operating rooms, homes and medical clinics make extensive use of this equipment.

The device is medically used by patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, emphysema among other respiratory conditions. People in very high altitudes such as mountain climbers and pilots also make use of it to aide guard against hypoxia. The oximeter technique can be helpful to athletes while training at high altitudes. The drastic depletion in oxygen level could increase the red blood cells of the athlete and help to increase their endurance.

Wrist oximeters offer a wide range of benefits. The device is relatively mobile and do not need an external source of power. They are simply attached to the wrist, making them more portable for the user that requires continued monitoring. In addition, they are lightweight and do not have long cable that could otherwise be caught or tangled when in use.

The gadgets are not only simple, but also easy to operate. Operating them does not entail any skill or technical know how. However, the practice of data transfer involves minor technical know-how. These instruments are also simple to read. Their display is robust that makes viewing oxygen saturation easier as opposed to the relatively compact finger pulse meter. All units incorporate a signal quality indicator along with them on the display.

The gadgets are readily available and within the reach of many people. When compared with handheld and finger pulse Oximeters, they have favorable prices. Their services are appreciated widely and from all age groups, ranging from pediatric to adults. Multiple of them fit pediatric and adult population, according to the size of the finger and unit ability of the individual to use different sizes and types.

The equipment also offers data storage. They are capable of keeping data and being programmed to provide readings within set time frames to facilitate for the reading of saturation levels. They record extensive oxygen and heart rate data and require software to enable them to download and make reports on computers installed with windows.

However, they also have their own setbacks when compared with other applications. For example, the equipment lacks alarm. Their use is primarily for sleep screening, and that is why alarms are not employed. When alarm service is required, handheld and tabletop Oximeters are preferred. Though the instrument offers spot checks, it is not the most ideal when the primary need is spot checking.




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