Have You Used the Saturimetro Pulse Oximeter Correctly?

Overview of Saturimetro Pulse Oximeter

A saturimetro pulse oximeter determines the proportion of oxygenated hemoglobin by utilizing the principle of the significant difference in spectral absorption between oxygenated and deoxygenated hemoglobin in the capillaries at the extremities. Therefore, blood oxygen saturation is expressed as a percentage. For example, if the measured value is 95%, it means that 95% of the hemoglobin in the blood vessels is carrying oxygen.

Generally, a pulse oximeter saturimetro displays two values: pulse rate (PR) and blood oxygen saturation (SPO2). PR represents the number of pulses per minute, with a normal pulse rate for humans being 60-100 beats per minute. The normal blood oxygen saturation for humans is 95%-100% (the normal range for blood oxygen saturation may be lower in high-altitude areas due to thin oxygen).

In addition to the above two values, the pulse oximeter saturimetro also displays a waveform curve. This curve represents the blood oxygen saturation waveform, which shows a regular, stable, and fluctuating tidal wave shape with the pulse. This curve indicates good contact between the finger and the instrument, providing high data reliability.

There are various types of saturimetro pulse oximeters, such as desktop, wrist, handheld, and fingertip types. Among them, saturimetro fingertip pulse oximeter uses are common at home, also known as a pulse oximeter. The index finger, middle finger, and ring finger are usually chosen for monitoring, with a value above 95% being considered normal. If the value is consistently below 95% for a long time, it may indicate hypoxia, and a hospital examination is necessary.

Precautions for Using Saturimetro Fingertip Oximeter

When using a saturimetro fingertip pulse oximeter, the following situations need to be noted.

• Applying nail polish affects the readings, and overly long nails can also lead to inaccurate results. Fingers should be cleaned before monitoring, and attention should be paid to avoid any foreign objects like adhesive tape on the fingers. Also, ensure that the fingers are dry.

  
  

• In cold weather, if the fingertips are cold, blood circulation may be poor, resulting in inaccurate measurements. Wait for the fingers to warm up before monitoring.

  
  

• Do not simultaneously measure blood pressure and blood oxygen on the same side. The blood pressure cuff will block blood flow when inflating, leading to inaccurate blood oxygen saturation measurements.

  
  

• Prolonged clamping of the same finger for blood oxygen saturation monitoring can lead to poor blood circulation in that finger. If long-term monitoring is needed, it is recommended to change the monitoring finger every 1-2 hours.

  
  

• Strong light can interfere with the blood oxygen probe signal, leading to inaccurate measurements. Therefore, it is not recommended to use it under strong light conditions.

  
  

• It has been found that different body positions can lead to varying blood oxygen saturation values, which may relate to improved oxygenation. For example, patients with inflammation in the right lung may have higher blood oxygen saturation when lying on their left side.

  
  

It is important to note that blood oxygen saturation is only one indicator reflecting the body's condition. Normal blood oxygen saturation does not necessarily mean the body is not lacking oxygen. Comprehensive evaluation of monitoring data alongside personal symptoms and signs is needed. For instance, even if the blood oxygen saturation is normal, symptoms like difficulty breathing or shortness of breath still require timely medical attention. Additionally, the normal blood oxygen saturation values for newborns, infants, and adults differ significantly, so pulse oximeters for adults are not suitable for infants and newborns.