How to Use a Pulse Oximeter to Measure Blood Oxygen Levels

SpO2 is a device that measures heart rate and blood oxygen saturation, allowing patients to monitor their health at home and promptly address any issues. But how do you use an SpO2 device? Let’s find out!

1Basic Information about SpO2 Monitors

Blood Oxygen Saturation Monitor SpO2

Blood Oxygen Saturation Monitor SpO2

SpO2 monitors are a type of device that measures blood oxygen saturation by contacting the skin on the fingertip, toe, or earlobe. Dr. Phan Vu Anh Minh, from the Intensive Care Unit of the University of Medicine and Pharmacy Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City, notes that there are various types of blood oxygen saturation monitors available. The advantage of a finger-clip SpO2 monitor is its convenience and compactness, and it does not cause pain or discomfort to the user.

SpO2 monitors work by emitting infrared light, which can penetrate capillaries and is partially absorbed by red blood cells. The remaining light is then absorbed by the machine’s sensor, which calculates the number of oxygen-carrying red blood cells and the percentage of oxygen saturation in the capillary blood.

SpO2 Indicates Blood Oxygen Saturation

SpO2 Indicates Blood Oxygen Saturation

Saturation of Peripheral Oxygen, or SpO2 for short, represents the level of oxygen saturation in peripheral blood, indicating the body’s ability to deliver oxygen to other organs. SpO2 is now considered the fifth vital sign, a critical indicator of a person’s survival status.

2How to Use a Finger-Clip SpO2 Monitor

Here’s how to use the SpO2 blood oxygen saturation monitor:

How to Use a Blood Oxygen Saturation Monitor SpO2

Step 1: Check the device by turning it on, observing the battery level, and ensuring it emits infrared light and that the screen turns on and displays numbers.

Step 2: Once the device appears normal, open the clip and place your finger in the clip, ensuring it touches the very end of the device.

Step 3: Start the measurement by pressing the power button and remaining still, avoiding hand movements during the process.

Step 4: After a few seconds, observe the results on the device, take note of them, and remove your finger. When the device automatically turns off (usually within a few seconds to a minute), you can put away the SpO2 monitor for future use.

3How to Interpret SpO2 Readings

How to Interpret SpO2 Readings

The most prominent and clearest reading from the SpO2 monitor is the blood oxygen saturation level. With a measurement range of 0-100% and an error margin of approximately ± 2%, you can observe the percentage displayed at the location labeled “SpO2.” Typically, a healthy individual will have values ranging from 98-100%.

Additionally, you can also obtain your heart rate reading at the location displaying a heart icon or labeled “PR” (short for pulse rate). With a measurement range of 0-254 beats per minute, a result within the range of 60-90 beats per minute for a resting adult indicates a healthy heart rate.

4Signs of Low Blood Oxygen Saturation

Signs of Low Blood Oxygen Saturation

When blood oxygen saturation drops below 96%, you may experience symptoms such as coughing, excessive sweating, respiratory issues like shortness of breath, rapid breathing, wheezing, or accessory muscle use during breathing; pale skin; an abnormal heart rate (faster or slower than usual); decreased memory; and feelings of fatigue and restlessness.

5Factors Affecting SpO2 Reading Accuracy

Although using an SpO2 monitor is relatively straightforward, neglecting minor details can lead to inaccurate results. Specifically, according to Master of Medicine – Dr. Dang Thanh Tuan from the Respiratory Resuscitation Task Force, it is recommended to warm your hands before measuring SpO2 and avoid moving during the measurement to ensure the most accurate results.

Nail Polish Can Affect SpO2 Reading Accuracy

Additionally, factors that can lead to decreased SpO2 readings, even when the body has sufficient oxygen, have been mentioned by Dr. Tran Thi Hai Ninh, Head of the Department of Internal Medicine at the Central Tropical Diseases Hospital. These factors include nail polish, direct light during measurement, cold hands, and low blood pressure.

6SpO2 Monitor Price and Purchase Locations

There are numerous brands of SpO2 monitors available at different price points. However, according to Dr. Truong Huu Khanh, a consultant in the Department of Infectious and Neurological Diseases at Children’s Hospital 1, it is recommended to purchase monitors from reputable medical equipment stores, with prices starting at 400,000-500,000 VND, to ensure reliability and quality.

Microlife – A Reliable SpO2 Monitor Brand

It is advisable to avoid SpO2 monitors manufactured in small Chinese workshops and priced below 100,000 VND. Instead, opt for reputable brands like Microlife from Switzerland, priced at approximately 750,000 VND, or Jumper-500Ec from Germany, priced around 560,000 VND, for peace of mind regarding durability and accuracy.

This article has provided detailed information about using SpO2 blood oxygen saturation monitors. We hope that with this knowledge, you and your family can effectively monitor your health!

Source: Vinmec