"Pulse oximetry" is not a term that would ring a bell with most Americans. But is not a new term for those in the medical industry. Since the first pulse oximeter hit the market in 1981, the medical industry and patients alike have come to value this handy device.So what is a pulse oximeter? It is a small non-invasive device which measures the oxygen saturation level and pulse rate of a patient. Usually clipped to a patient's finger, the tiny machine needs only to make skin contact and take a pulse reading to determine oxygen levels. And over the device's thirty-some year history, technology has allowed for the size of pulse oximeters to become smaller and smaller, making them pocket-sized and portable, and available for home use.Pulse oximeters are indispensable in the operating room and ICU as well, as they allow for constant monitoring of patients under anesthesia or on sedatives. Prior to the invention of this monitor, anesthesia was a dangerous procedure; now the surgeon and anesthesiologist had a valuable partner in the operating room, and deaths were dramatically reduced. The device saves lives, and also provides a great convenience. For all kinds of patients who monitor their oxygen at home, the pulse oximeter provides an ongoing readout in a completely painless design.Pulse oximeters for personal use can be purchased found online from various sources, but not all oximeters are created equal. A closer examination of the various companies selling pulse oximeters will reveal differences in expertise and specialization. But what makes various oximeters different from one another? Well the first step in understanding the differences (which correlate to price differences) is to understand the basic functions of a pulse oximeter. The most important features of a pulse oximeter are measurements of pulse (heart rate), and SPO2 (blood oxygen saturation). Any oximeter you buy must be absolutely reliable on both these counts.But there are other features to consider. Most entry level pulse oximeters are in the price range of about $50 or so, but these oximeters do not have color screens and tend to be quite basic in options. Higher end pulse oximeters will have color OLED displays. This might not seem like an important feature, but keep in mind the color OLED makes for much easier readings. This has proven to be very beneficial to older customers, and for home healthcare staff to take quicker readings. On top of the color OLED screens, these premium pulse oximeters will have plethysmograph and perfusion index capabilities (indicators which can help predict oncoming symptoms).When purchasing a pulse oximeter, do not opt for low price without considering quality. Do your research, read reviews, and figure out which brands and distributors are most trusted. You can find good brands at many medical suppliers. But it is often the case that a company which specializes only in pulse oximeters will provide the best value on a quality device.
