A fingertip pulse oximeter is a small, non-invasive medical device used to measure the oxygen saturation (SpO2) levels in the blood and heart rate. It works by clipping onto a fingertip and using light sensors to detect how much oxygen is being carried by red blood cells.

Here’s how it functions:

  • It emits light through the finger (usually using red and infrared light).
  • The device measures how much light is absorbed by oxygenated and deoxygenated blood.
  • Based on the absorption, it calculates the percentage of oxygen saturation and displays it on the screen.

Pulse oximeters are widely used in clinical settings, during surgery, in emergency rooms, or for at-home monitoring of patients with respiratory or cardiovascular conditions like COPD, asthma, or COVID-19. The reading typically gives a normal oxygen saturation level as 95% to 100%, while values below that may indicate a medical issue.

How to use, read and interpret fingertip pulse oximeter results.

How to Use a Fingertip Pulse Oximeter

  1. Prepare the device:
    • Turn on the pulse oximeter by pressing the power button.
    • Make sure your hands are warm and relaxed.
  2. Position it correctly:
    • Insert your finger (usually the index or middle finger) into the pulse oximeter. Ensure that the device fits snugly but not too tight.
    • The light sensor should be placed on the nail side of your finger.
  3. Wait for the reading:
    • Stay still while the device takes the measurement (this usually takes a few seconds).
    • The display will show two main values: your oxygen saturation level (SpO2) and your pulse rate.

How to Read Pulse Oximeter Results

  1. Oxygen Saturation (SpO2) Percentage:
    • This value represents the percentage of hemoglobin in your blood that is carrying oxygen. It is usually displayed as a percentage (%) on the oximeter.
    • Normal range: 95%–100%
    • Below normal: 90%–94% (This may indicate a mild issue, like early-stage respiratory problems.)
    • Hypoxemia (low oxygen levels): Less than 90% (This could be a sign of a more serious issue, and medical attention may be needed.)
  2. Pulse Rate (BPM – Beats Per Minute):
    • The second number displayed on the oximeter shows your pulse rate, which is your heartbeats per minute.
    • Normal range for adults: 60–100 beats per minute.
    • Tachycardia: Above 100 BPM (This could indicate stress, infection, dehydration, or other conditions).
    • Bradycardia: Below 60 BPM (This may be normal in athletes but could also suggest heart issues if unexplained).

Interpreting Results

  • Normal Oxygen Levels:
    • If your SpO2 is between 95%–100%, your blood is well-oxygenated, and no immediate action is required.
  • Mildly Low Oxygen Levels (90%–94%):
    • This could indicate early respiratory issues, mild asthma, or reduced oxygen intake. Monitor your condition, and consider consulting a doctor if it persists.
  • Oxygen Saturation Below 90%:
    • This may indicate hypoxemia, which is a medical emergency. Low oxygen levels could be a sign of severe respiratory conditions, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pneumonia, or COVID-19 complications. Immediate medical attention may be necessary.
  • Changes in Pulse Rate:
    • An unusually high or low heart rate can be a sign of dehydration, heart disease, infection, or other medical conditions. It is important to assess this alongside the SpO2 value.
  • Key Considerations
  • Cold fingers, nail polish, or artificial nails can affect the accuracy of the reading.
  • For continuous monitoring, it’s useful to check the readings at different times of the day, especially during rest and activity.