Selecting The Appropriate Recording Pulse Oximeter

By Tracie Knight


The pulse oximeter technology has been in place for a very long time since it was first made commercially available in 1970s. At the time of introduction, the devices were so cumbersome and could weigh up to 35lbs. They were also uncomfortable to use and were so expensive selling at an average price of 10, 000 each. This has so far changed and getting a nice looking sizable recording pulse oximeter is not an issue any more.

Their working is based on scientific principles that have been in place for long. Ideally, oxygenated blood absorbs the red light at 660nm significantly different from 940nm where the deoxygenated blood absorbs infrared light. With this in mind, the gadgets are designed to emit the two light rays (red light and infrared light from) from LEDs. These are passed through the body tissues and absorbed by the data readings obtain includes the oxygen level in blood, the pulse rate and cardiovascular conditions.

Each device may slightly vary in its working and it is therefore advisable to consider several features when selecting the best device for the job. If possible, the brand and the prices should not be the main determinants but rather, it is better to look for a device that work best for your situation at the lowest price possible.

To start with, the model must be FDA approved. Given that pulse oximeter falls in the class II classification of medical gadgets, it must have FDA approval before it can be sold to the public. Presently, the greater part of them have FDA approval, but just for confirmation, it is advisable to run through the FDA medical Device Database, enter the model name or manufacturer name and get details regarding its approvals.

The next and most important issue to consider is its accuracy and reliability. Given that its primary purpose is to measure oxygen saturation and the pulse rate, all efforts are focused on finding the device that is able to give the most accurate results in a consistent and reliable manner within its operation range. By comparing it with those used in medical centers, you should be able to select a better option.

The device should also be relatively easy to use. If possible, it should be used by all family members without having to struggle. In fact, the user manual alone should be enough to guide you through without having to involve an expert. It should also be of the size that comfortably work for the targeted end user, be it children or adults.

In addition the above mentioned features, there are several other features to look for in an oximeter. This includes its memory capacity, the possibility to connect with computers or phones for data processing. More so, the devices that have multi-person memory (store data for more than one person) are also considered superior.

The other issues include its battery life span, storage case, the logbook, its ease of storage, the general appearance and the software program in it. All these in addition to many other features can help select the best oximeter from the store.




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