Due to the present world situation, people are facing invasive breathing problems. To counterattack this condition, doctors are examining their patients with the help of pulse oximetry devices that evaluates their oxygen levels in the blood.
As it is said, Prevention is better than cure; people have started buying these devices to use in their homes. This article will guide you to understand the concept of the pulse oximetry technique. In turn, it will help you make better and satisfactory decisions when it comes to buying one yourself.
What is pulse Oximetry?
The human body requires oxygen in every part of its body. Whether it is a system, or an organ, without oxygen the cells do not function appropriately and end up dying. This can further cause more severe damage and will only conclude at system or organ failure.
The oxygenated and deoxygenated blood is transported to and from the organs through the lungs. After the filtration process of oxygen in the lungs, the distribution occurs through the blood and is carried by hemoglobin proteins in red blood cells. These proteins continue providing oxygen to the rest of the body.
Purpose and Uses
This test does not involve any invasive techniques and is quick, easy, and pain-free as well. It is used in the evaluating process of different medical problems related to the proper functioning of the heart and lungs. These conditions include:
- Asthma
- Pneumonia
- Anemia
- Lung cancer
- Inherited heart problems
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- Heart attack/failure
- Suffocation/Choking
People suffering from respiratory or cardiovascular conditions, individuals having various infections, and infants are considered to be significantly benefited by using the method of pulse oximetry.
The method, pulse oximetry, swiftly detects even the slightest change in the efficiency of oxygen supply in any area of the body.
If the doctor finds any abnormality in the blood supply activity, the following deductions were looked into:
- Whether the patient needs to breathe in extra oxygen through a tube (supplemental oxygen).
- Need for admitting the individual to an institute for the treatment of lung or heart conditions.
- Used during or after surgery or medical procedures that use sedation.
- Inspect breathless moments during sleep (sleep apnea).
- Identify the need for a ventilator for breathing assistance or to monitor it’s working.
- Evaluate the ability of an individual to endure increased physical activities.
A healthcare provider may also have other reasons to advise the use of pulse oximetry.
How does Pulse Oximetry work?
- During a pulse oximetry test, a small clamp-like device or probe is placed on a finger, earlobe, or toe. Other than minor pressure, the patient does not feel anything else.
- In addition, small beams of light are passed through the blood in the area of contact. This indicates the measuring of oxygen in the blood. This is due to the changes in light absorption in oxygenated or deoxygenated blood. This allows you to know the oxygen saturation levels as well as your heart rate.
- The probe or clamp-like device is kept on as long as it is required by the doctor to monitor the pulse and oxygen saturation of the patient. When monitoring physical activity capabilities, it will be done during the recovery period. Once the test is over, the clip or probe is removed.
- In some cases, Pulse oximetry is also recommended by the doctor for home use.
What’s next?
When the test is over, the doctor will have the readings straight away. This will determine whether the patient requires other testing or treatment.
An individual using pulse oximetry at home is guided by the doctor on how to take readings.
What Do the Results Mean?
Naturally, 89 percent of your blood must carry oxygen. This is the required saturation level to your cells ad body to remain healthy.
Although a temporary decrease in oxygen level does not usually cause any damage, a repeatedly consistent decline in oxygen saturation levels can lead to different conditions.
During a pulse oximetry test, the measurements or readings shown on the screen indicates the saturation of red blood cells with oxygen.
There are specific ranges of saturation levels that allow the doctors and nurses to evaluate and prepare the next test or treatment for the patient. A brief overview of the ranges are given below:
Range | Description |
---|---|
95% | It is considered as the normal percentage value for a healthy individual |
92% | Indicates the deficiency of oxygen in the body and also probable presence of hypoxemia. |
89% or less | The body’s requirement of oxygen is not fulfilled and requires further testing or treatment |
This saturation level also helps in determining the need for supplemental oxygen of the patient. The saturation number differs from a value of partial pressure of oxygen (PO2) which is measured by extracting blood from an artery.
How do you prepare?
You are not needed to do anything different to get ready for the test. However, the patient is needed to wash their hands, trim off their nails on which the testing will be done, or to remove their nail polish. This is because dirty fingers or nails can lead to inaccurate results.
How much does it cost?
The doctor usually does not charge for pulse oximetry individually as it is rather a part of a surgery or a series of tests. If you plan on buying pulse oximetry for home use, they cost between $15 and $80.
What are the risks?
Pulse oximetry is a safe test with no potential risk factors. However, if the nurse or doctor does not correctly put the sensor, this might lead to inaccurate readings of the saturation level and heart rate.
The oxygen saturation level may also drop for a brief period due to different factors like change in sleeping position or holding your breath momentarily. The pulse oximeter used in the test gives an alert even for the slightest change or drop which is temporary and harmless. A person should contact his doctor if they have any questions or concerns.
For more please visit FAQs about Pulse Oximeters
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