We breathe thousands of times during the day, even if we are not aware of it. Because we need oxygen to live. Spreading the oxygen we breathe in to every part of our body is just as important as breathing. This is where a device called an oximeter comes into play. The oximeter measures the oxygen level in the blood, that is, the SpO2 value, and observes the diffusion of oxygen in our body.
A blood test can also be done to measure the oxygen level in the blood, but it is always more advantageous to use an oximeter in outpatient settings or when continuous measurement is required. Moreover, this device gives very successful results thanks to its technology. Let’s take a closer look at what the oximeter is, how it works, what are the types, and see the importance of the oxygen level in the blood.
What is an oximeter?
The device that allows the measurement of the oxygen level in the blood, namely the SpO2 value, by attaching a clamp-like device with some adhesive to prevent it from slipping, is called an oximeter. oximeter; It can be used in outpatient treatments, instant SpO2 measurements and in situations where the oxygen level in the blood must be constantly monitored.
What does the oximeter do?
It is extremely important for a person to get enough oxygen and to carry this oxygen to every part of the body through the blood. This level can be measured with a blood test, but it takes time. Thanks to the oximeter, the oxygen level in the blood can be measured in seconds, even with small margins of error, and provides rapid intervention when necessary.
How does the oximeter work?
After the oximeter is attached to the finger or earlobe, it sends infrared light to the vein it is on. In infrared light, oxygen-carrying hemoglobins appear much brighter and are counted by the device. The oxygen level in the blood is determined with +/- 2 percent margin of error and oxygen support is provided to the patient when necessary.
In what situations is the oximeter used?
There are many different situations in which the oxygen level in the blood needs to be determined. While it can be checked regularly, there may also be situations where the SpO2 value must be measured at the moment, depending on the patient’s complaint. Some situations where the oximeter is used include:
- Before, during and after surgery
- To check the effectiveness of lung medications
- To detect if a person is lifting their activity intensity
- To understand if the patient needs respiratory support
- In the detection of sleep apnea and similar respiratory disorders
Oximeter types:
- Finger type pulse oximeter
- Handheld pulse oximeter
- Wrist type pulse oximeter
- Console type pulse oximeter
As their names suggest, oximeter types are named according to where the measuring instrument is placed. The task of each is the same. However, the situations in which they are used may be different. Experts decide at that moment which type of oximeter should be used. Even some smartwatches can measure the oxygen level in the blood, but it would be wrong to call them an oximeter for smartwatches.
Is there any harm in using oximeter?
The test performed by the oximeter has not been found to cause any harm to date. Only the adhesive substance on the measuring instrument may cause irritation or allergy on some skins. In cases where continuous measurement is required, incorrect results may be obtained because the instrument attached to the limb slips, but this is not a harm. The problem is noticed and retested.
What is the blood oxygen level SpO2 and how much should it be?
The SpO2 value, which expresses the oxygen level or saturation in the blood, is one of the most important values that shows whether the oxygen we breathe is successfully transported to other parts of the body through the blood. In healthy people, the SpO2 value should be between 95 percent and 100 percent. Unless this value falls below 80 percent, it does not pose a life-threatening risk, but it is not desired to go below 90 percent.
Why does the blood oxygen level and SpO2 decrease?
Oxygen level in the blood SpO2 value can decrease due to many different reasons. There are cases where it crashes frequently, even momentarily. Some situations that decrease SpO2 value are as follows;
- Chronic bronchitis
- Emphysema
- COPD
- Asthma
- Failed lung
- Anemia
- Congenital heart problems
- Subsequent heart problems
- Pulmonary embolism
If you want to learn more about the SpO2 value, which expresses the oxygen level or saturation in the blood, you can review our article here. What we tell is for informational purposes only. When you feel any discomfort, apply to the nearest health institution.
We talked about the details you need to know about this important device and the SpO2 value by answering the questions such as what is the oximeter that measures the oxygen level in the blood, what it does, how it works, what are the types.
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