What is a Pulse Oximeter?

A pulse oximeter is a small medical device that is clipped onto the fingertip or earlobe to measure two important things: oxygen saturation and heart rate. It is relatively simple but you need to understand the abbreviations and how to interpret the readings.

Abbreviations: 

SpO2%: Blood oxygen saturation - The amount of oxygen carried by your red blood cells

PR/BPM: Pulse Rate - The number of heartbeats per minute

Steps for Accurate Readings:

• Similarly to a sphygmomanometer, sit comfortably and keep your arms still or relaxed (lay it on a table)

• Clip the oximeter onto your fingertip (ideally the index or middle) or earlobe with the monitor facing up. Make sure the finger is clean and warm.

• Wait for around 10-20 seconds to let the readings stabilize and ensure accuracy

• Track the values, time, and finger over time

How to Interpret the Readings:

• Normal Blood Levels: SpO2 is around 95%-100% for adults

• Insufficient Blood Levels: SpO2 is around 91%-95% for adults

• Low Blood Levels: SpO2 is ≥90%

• Seek medical attention if your blood levels are below normal

Factors That Could Affect Readings:

• Cold fingers, shaky hands, poor circulation could make readings inaccurate

• Bright lights or low battery in the device could make readings inaccurate

• Any nail polish, fake nail, or dark skin pigmentation can interfere with the sensors of the pulse oximeter

Why and what to do with readings?

• Track data or changes for your medical professionals

• See how your saturation and heart rate are affected by exercise or shortness of breath

• Monitoring the SpO2 can identify any underlying lung or heart conditions, but seek a medical professional because at home monitoring isn’t conclusive enough