Features of a fingertip pulse oximeter
Basic features of a pulse oximeter
Blood Oxygen Saturation (SpO2)
Your SpO2 reading is a measure of the amount of oxygen in your blood. According to Mayo Clinic, an SpO2 reading of 95% or more is generally considered to be a normal blood oxygen level*. A reading of 94% or less (at sea level) suggests that your blood oxygen saturation level is low. People who live at high altitudes may display lower SpO2 readings.
Pulse Rate (PR)
Your PR reading is a measure of the number of times your heart contracts per minute. The normal pulse rate values for adults typically range from 60-100 bpm (beats per minute). In general, a lower heart rate at rest implies more efficient heart function and better cardiovascular fitness.
Pulse Bar Graph
Pulse bar graph is a visual representation of your pulse beat. It is a useful feature used to determine the reliability of a reading. The height of the pulse bar graph correlates to pulse strength. In general, the height of the pulse bar graph should be at least 30% when a reading is taken.
Extra features of a pulse oximeter
Plethysmograph
Plethysmograph is an SpO2 waveform. It indicates the amount of blood flow detected by the pulse oximeter. Each wave in the plethysmograph corresponds to a heartbeat and the wave amplitude corresponds to the amount of blood detected by the pulse oximeter. The pulse oximeter is optimized when the height of the wave amplitude is consistent throughout. This is the best time to take a reading.
Alarm
The alarm feature allows user to define a range for the SpO2 and PR parameters. The alarm will trigger when SpO2 or PR reading exceeds the defined range.
Choosing Your Model
Below is an overview of each model to help you choose the pulse oximeter that best fits your preferences and needs.
Ready to own a pulse oximeter?
Shop with confidence from our pulse oximeter selection: https://zacurate.com/collections/pulse-oximeters. Use coupon code SPO2 during checkout and receive 10% off your order.
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Comments 2
carol
what is a good pulse rate bar…? 7.1?
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Zacurate replied:
Please note that the pulse bar graph indicates pulse strength. This can be used to determine the reliability of a reading. In general, the height of the pulse bar graph should be at least 30% when a reading is taken. If the bar is lower than 30%, this indicates signal inadequacy, and the displayed SpO2 and pulse rate value is potentially incorrect. Readjust your finger to ensure proper placement. Please email us at cs@beyondmedshop.com if you require additional information.
Customer Service Beyond Med Shop 832-939-8290 Mon-Fri 9 am to 5 pm CST
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Carla Alarcon
If it reads 95/24 what does that mean I’m not understanding the bottom number could you help me out
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Zacurate replied:
Hi Carla! For your information, the pulse oximeter registers your blood oxygen level and your pulse/heart rate. Usually, the top number is the oxygen level and the bottom number is the pulse/heart rate.
Following are some tips that will help you get accurate readings when using the pulse oximeter:
-after you insert your finger and turn the power button on, please wait about 30 seconds for the readings to stabilize. Some people require a longer time for the pulse oximeter to optimize its sensitivity. While the device is doing this, the readings will keep fluctuating until it stabilizes.
-keep your hand still because any movement can cause the device to reset its’ reading. This will cause readings to fluctuate and be inaccurate.
-if applicable, nail polish and false fingernails may also cause false readings. If possible, switch to an unpolished nail or consider another application site.
-when your blood perfusion level is low, the device may have a hard time registering an accurate reading. Sometimes, it may not even register a reading. We suggest that you warm your hands and fingers before taking the measurements. You can do this simply by rubbing your hands together. Remember your pulse oximeter is measuring your SpO2 and PR based on your blood flow. If the blood flow in your finger drops below a certain level, the pulse oximeter will not be able to function.
I hope this helps. Please contact us again if you require additional information.
Thank you!
Sara Beyond Med Shop
832-939-8290 Mon-Fri 9 am to 5 pm CST
*Proud to be #295 Inc. 500 Fastest Growing Companies (1562% Growth) *