How A Recording Pulse Oximeter Works

By Marci Glover


Pulse oximetry is the process of measuring and monitoring the level of concentration of oxygen in blood. Recording pulse oximeter is the appliance used for monitoring. To work effectively, the sensor need to be placed across thin flesh. In grownup people fingertips or earlobes are the best whereas in infants limbs can do. The percentage of hemoglobin that has oxygen loaded to it is determined and the figure is displayed on a screen.

When making a purchase, one should go for a device that incorporates alarm systems. Such devices produce audible sounds to alert the patient when the concentration of oxygen falls below unacceptable levels. This feature is particularly important during night time when one is asleep. People with impaired vision or any kind of immobility may also find alarms to be important.

The functioning of oximeters bases on disparity in how light is absorbed. A typical design is made of a processor and 2 light emitting diodes, which face a photodiode directly. When in use the LEDs and the photodiode must have a thin layer of and organ like the lower side of the ear separating them. One LED is colored red with a wave-length of 660nm whereas the second is infrared and has a wave-length of 940nm. How the red and infrared LED lights are absorbed by deoxygenated and oxygenated hemoglobin differs. This forms the main working principle in the device.

The LEDs flash about thirty times in every second. High accuracy may be measured by the steadiness of the flashing. Good devices have high accuracy and have mechanisms for notifying users of incorrect readings. Users should also be notified of inaccuracies in readings because of interferences. Modern models come with computer interfaces that allow users to see recorded values better.

Recording oximeters are able to be incorporated into bigger systems, which monitor many parameters inside the human body. This ability is essential because multiple patient parameters can be recorded simultaneously. Portability and measurement of heart beats are the other features to check for when making a purchase. Battery life and discharge time are the primary factors for consideration in portable brands.

The abilities of various brands differs a lot. Bluetooth technology is incorporated in modern recording oximeters to facilitate the exchange of data among gadgets. They also permit for analysis of oxygen concentration patterns in patients for decision making. The analysis is possible from data records maintained over time. It is also possible to print records for record keeping, further analysis, or referral.

Features to check for when buying a device include capability to maintain data from multiple people, availability of accessories, and simplicity of storage. Common accessories include cases for storage, log books, and batteries. The gadget should be simple to use and the shape should be convenient. Buyers have flexibility in picking color of a product since they come in a wide range or color shades.

It is advisable to read the manual that accompanies the product before using. The manuals provide important information about handling, storage, and maintenance. Malfunctioned products should be checked before they are used to avoid working with incorrect data.




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