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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 gadget emits infrared and red lights from two light emitting diodes comprised in the sensor. When in use, the detectors and diodes should be opposite to each other. A tissue of about 5-10 mm should separate the detector from the diode. For this reason, the sensor of the oximeter must be attached onto thin tissues. Sensors are normally made to look like wraps or clips. According to recent findings, oxygen saturation is not effectively measured through earlobes.

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.

Oximeters have several uses besides measuring oxygen saturation. First, oximetry can serve as a replacement for blood gas analysis except in cases where acid-base state or PaCO2 is necessary. This method is also cheaper, easier to perform, and less painful compared to many others. It also has a higher level of accuracy especially in cases where the patient is conscious. Recorded values can be used to determine variations and to set standards in patients.

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 recording function in recording oximeters makes them to cost a little higher than other models. Prices vary according to the degree of complexity. Stores that sell medical equipment are among the places one can buy these devices from.




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