Pulse oximetry is a test used to measure the oxygen level (oxygen saturation) of the blood. It is an easy, painless measure of how well oxygen is being sent to parts of your body furthest from your heart, such as the arms and legs. A clip-like device called a probe is placed on a
body part, such as a finger or ear lobe. The probe uses light to measure how much oxygen is in the blood. This information helps the healthcare provider decide if a person needs extra oxygen. Pulse oximetry may be used to see if there is enough oxygen in the blood. This information is needed in many kinds of situations. It may be used: During or after surgery or procedures that use sedation To see how well lung
medicines are working To check a person’s ability to handle increased activity levels To see if a ventilator is needed to help with breathing, or to see how well it’s working To check a person has moments when breathing stops during sleep (sleep apnea) Pulse oximetry is also used to check the health of a person with any condition that affects blood oxygen levels, such as:
Your healthcare provider may have other reasons to advise pulse oximetry. What are the risks of pulse oximetry?All procedures have some risks. The risks of this procedure may include:
Your risks may vary depending on your general health and other factors. Ask your healthcare provider which risks apply most to you. Talk with him or her about any concerns you have. How do I get ready for pulse oximetry?Your healthcare provider will explain the procedure to you. Make sure to ask any questions you have about the procedure. If a finger probe is to be used, you may be asked to remove fingernail polish. Your healthcare provider may have other instructions for getting ready. What happens during pulse oximetry?You may have your procedure as an outpatient. This means you go home the same day. Or it may be done as part of a longer stay in the hospital. The way the procedure is done may vary. It depends on your condition and your healthcare provider's methods. In most cases, pulse oximetry will follow this process:
What happens after pulse oximetry?You can go home after the test, unless you are in the hospital for another reason. You may go back to your normal diet and activities as instructed by your healthcare provider. Your healthcare provider may give you other instructions after the procedure. OverviewA pulse oximeter is a device that checks to see how much oxygen your blood is carrying. Usually a small clip is put on the end of your finger. (Sometimes it's put on your toe or earlobe.) The device shines a light beam through the skin. It estimates your oxygen level by measuring the percentage of your blood that's carrying oxygen. Your oxygen level (or oxygen saturation, SpO2) shows on the display screen. Pulse oximeters are used in doctors' offices and hospitals. Your doctor may think it's a good idea to use one at home. This may be the case for people who have a condition that affects their oxygen levels. Examples include people who have long-term heart or lung problems or an infection like COVID-19. Choose a device that has been approved to give accurate readings. Talk to your doctor if you want help choosing one. Why is it used?Usually, low blood oxygen levels cause symptoms like fatigue or shortness of breath. But with some health problems, you may not have symptoms from low blood oxygen. Your doctor may suggest checking your oxygen at different times. This can help you know when you need medical attention even if you don't have symptoms. How do you use a pulse oximeter?Turn on the pulse oximeter. (Check that it has batteries.) Clip it on the end of a finger. Your nail should be facing up. You'll see the results in a few seconds. The device gives two results: your blood oxygen level (SpO2) and your pulse rate (PR). Your doctor can help you know what numbers are normal for you. The device may not show any results if you have cold hands or you wear nail polish or artificial nails. Warm your hand, or remove the nail polish or nail. Or try a different finger. Your doctor may suggest checking your oxygen level at different times, during exercise, or anytime your symptoms get worse. Keep a record of your levels in case you need to show it to your doctor. When should you call for help?Your doctor probably told you what numbers to watch for when you use your pulse oximeter. If not, here is some guidance. Call your doctor or nurse advice line if:
If you have certain health problems, like COPD, your oxygen level may always be lower than 95%. Ask your doctor what oxygen number you should expect when using your pulse oximeter. Find out which number is a sign that you should call for help. Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor or nurse advice line if:
CreditsCurrent as of: July 6, 2021 Author: Healthwise Staff How can I check my oxygen level at home?Can I do a pulse oximetry test at home? Home use oximeters are available for sale online and in chemists. These can be used to measure the levels of oxygen in your blood, but sometimes give poor or inaccurate measurements. Before testing at home, talk to your health care professional.
How can I check my oxygen level at home without a machine?You are supposed to count the number of breaths you are taking in a minute. To do this, place your hand on your chest and count the number of times you breathe. If your respiratory rate is more than 30, you might have a low oxygen level.
What is a dangerously low oxygen level?People should contact a health care provider if their oxygen saturation readings drop below 92%, as it may be a sign of hypoxia, a condition in which not enough oxygen reaches the body's tissues. If blood oxygen saturation levels fall to 88% or lower, seek immediate medical attention, says Dr.
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How to measure pulse ox at home
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