The Best Pulse Oximeter

A pulse oximeter is a small medical device designed to measure the oxygen level present in your blood at any given time. Pulse oximeters usually clip to your index finger and emit a special light that is able to measure the amount of oxygen in your blood at that moment. Some pulse oximeters offer other features as well, such as the ability to calculate your heart rate, which is useful during exercise.
If you're looking to purchase a pulse oximeter to help monitor a health condition or to simply get the maximum benefit out of your workouts, this helpful guide is designed to assist you in choosing the correct model for your needs.
Know Your Goals & Consult Your Medical Professional
It is always wise to work along with your doctor when choosing a pulse oximeter, especially if you have specific health conditions that you are currently being treated for. You and your physician can discuss your specific health care goals and how having access to a pulse oximeter at home can assist you in reaching them.
Since there are many types of pulse oximeters on the market, all with various bells and whistles, it is important to be clear on what your specific goals are and what you will be using your pulse oximeter to accomplish. If you have a chronic illness, you may want to research the most durable models and brands that will provide reliable results when used multiple times per day.
If you're a fitness buff and looking to improve the results from your training, a pulse oximeter with a heart rate monitor built in is probably going to be important to you. As you're checking out various features, keep your long and short term goals in the forefront of your mind.
Investigate Various Types of Pulse Oximeters and Narrow Your Search

As you begin looking around at various brands and models of pulse oximeters, you'll see that there are many different types now readily available. Below are some of the most commonly found pulse oximeters.
* Fingertip or portable: This is the most commonly used at-home version of a pulse oximeter. It offers maximum portability, while still offering fairly accurate results. This version is generally battery operated and the display will be right on the unit itself.
* Handheld: This is the type of pulse oximeter most commonly found in medical settings, although it can be purchased for at home use and can be helpful for those with serious or chronic health conditions that need constant monitoring. It offers the added benefit of giving slightly more accurate readings than the fingertip models, but the drawback is that it comes with less portability.
* Wearable Devices: Generally worn around the wrist, this type of pulse oximeter usually offers the best portability, and is ideal for those that have serious health conditions and need their oxygen levels monitored constantly, even during sleep.
* Children's Pulse Oximeters: If you need to monitor the oxygen levels of an infant or child, it's vital to purchase a pulse oximeter designed specifically for children. Adult models will not work the same on a small child, and therefore the readings given by them will not yield accurate results. Additionally, in the case of a child having extremely small fingers, there is also the option to purchase a children's pulse oximeter that attaches to the foot or even the head. This can offer much more accurate reading.

Learn the Various Features Available
It's important for you to research several different models and look at the various features offered from each one to determine the right fit for you and your specific needs. Below are some of the most common features that many pulse oximeters on the market offer and who can get the most benefit from each one.
* Alarms: Many pulse oximeters come equipped with alarms that will sound when oxygen levels dip below a specified amount. This can be very beneficial to caretakers of loved ones with serious health conditions that need constant monitoring.
* Battery Life: If you're going to be using your pulse oximteter daily, or even several times a day, you'll want to look for a model with excellent ratings in terms of battery life and durability. Alternatively, a plug in device may be best suited for constant daily use.
* Accuracy Alerts: Many models of pulse oximeters will alert you if there is a problem with the accuracy of the readings or if something is interfering with obtaining a good reading. You can then make any necessary adjustments to get a proper reading.
* Size Counts: Most pulse oximeters are fairly standard in size. The majority of probes are 0.3 to 1.0 inch and are designed to fit almost all adult fingers properly. If you are making a purchase online, you will want to be sure to measure your finger from the top of the nail to the bottom of the pad of the finger, just before the first joint. Use this measurement when determining the correct size for your needs.
Purchase From a Reliable Retailer with a Good Return Policy

Even with all of this research and these helpful tips at your disposal, it's possible to make a purchase that just doesn't end up suiting your needs. If you make your purchase from a reliable retailer, you should be able to contact them to make a return or exchange with no hassle. This is expecially important when purchasing a pulse oximeter online. Review an online retailer's return policy carefully prior to purchasing.
Check Accuracy Prior to Use
One final tip is to be sure the unit you chose is giving you accurate readings, especially if you're monitoring a serious health condition. The best way to do this is to take it along with you to your doctor's office. There you can get a reading on your portable device and immediately compare it to your doctor's reading on his or her in-office device. Granted, the readings may not be identical since it's likely your doctor has much more sensitive equipment. However, the two readings should be close and then you'll know that your device is accurate.
Your health is your greatest asset, and it's important to monitor any health conditions accurately. By following these helpful tips, you can purchase a pulse oximeter with confidence knowing that you're getting the best option to suit your specific needs and goals.

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This page about Pulse Oximeter was composed by V. Tobies and published by Alternative.me.
It was last updated on 2024-04-23 08:16:27 and has been viewed 4301 times.