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By Rosella Campbell


Pulse oximetry is a technique used on patients to monitor oxygen saturation in the blood. A recording pulse oximeter is the medical gadget used for this purpose. The device monitors changes in oxygen saturation and notifies the patient or physician when it falls below certain levels. This prevents commas or death through fast medical intervention.

The principle of pectrophotometry is the one these gadgets base on in their working. This principle is in turn reliant on how deoxygenated and oxygenated blood cells absorb red and infrared light. The sensor records these rates of absorption and passes the values to the main machine to be processed. The machine processes and gives new values after every of 0.5-1 seconds. High accuracy is ensured by this high rate.

The gadget comprises of two light emitting diodes that emit infrared and red radiations. When in use, the diodes must be placed directly opposite to their respective detectors. The detectors and the diodes should then be separated by 5-10 mm of tissue. This is why an oximeter must be placed on an organ with thin tissues like an earlobe or fingertip. Sensors of the device are made into clips or wraps. Recent studies show that oxygen saturation inside the body cannot be measured effectively through earlobes.

These devices can be employed in all medical settings where it is important to monitor blood oxygen saturation in patients. Major facilities in which they are used include treatment wards, recovery wards, operation rooms, intensive care, and emergency units. Accuracy of recorded values can be achieved by the patient staying in a calm position. Devices with recording function are better because they keep a record of values for a given period for future use.

Besides gauging level of O2 concentration in blood, oximeters have many other applications. First, oximetry can be an alternative or replacement for blood gas analysis unless if acid-base state or PaCO2 is required. This technique is also simpler to perform, less painful, and costs less in comparison to several others. The level of accuracy is also higher especially if a patient is conscious. Recorded values set standards and are useful in determining variations.

Oximeters also ensure economical use of oxygen supplied to patients in tanks hence avoiding wastage. Additional uses are in intrapartum fetal monitoring and neonatal care. However, use in intrapartum fetal monitoring and neonatal care are not fully developed and standardized but they will soon. Modern ambulances are equipped with these devices for first aid to patients. GP kits are also becoming equipped with oximeters.

In primary care, these gadgets are useful in the diagnosis and management exacerbation of COPD in places. This method can also be employed in grading severity of asthma attacks. An attack is said to life-threatening if the reading falls below ninety two percent. Oximetry can also be used to assess and care for bronchiolitis in kids.

The recording function in recording oximeters makes them to cost a little higher than other models. Prices vary according to the degree of complexity. Stores that sell medical equipment are among the places one can buy these devices from.




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