Pulse Oximetry – A Little Knowledge Can Be a Dangerous Thing

Basics of Pulse Oximetry

Pulse oximetry is a big word for a little and useful tool doctors use to test how well the heart and lungs are working. The way it works is: to estimate your blood oxygen with a little light beamed through your finger or earlobe. Since oxygen happen to be super fuel for our body it has to run in out blood which is why than oxygen monitoring is important.

Analyzing Pulse Oximetry with Care

If a doctor is using a pulse oximeter, he or she will see two numbers on its screen how much oxygen is in your blood and your heart rate. This is something to keep in mind though because if you are more active or are a bit under the weather there numbers could be different. If you have questions about what your pulse oximetry readings mean, it's always best to speak with a doctor.

Problems with Pulse Oximetry(incorrect interpretation): follwow-up of incorrect pulse oximetry may result.

At times, some people might feel somewhat panicky if their pulse oximetry results indicate that their oxygen levels are less than ideal. However, this should not be forgotten: machines and tools that are used to measure things can give an incorrect signal as well! Whatever the case, don't freak out and always consult with a doctor if you are in doubt about your results. They will know they need to verify that everything is proper and sound.

Pulse oximetry measurements can be challenging to interpret.

Pulse oximetry measurements can be a little tricky because they depend on a variety of factors like how warm or cold your fingers are, and if you have nail polish on. Your finger or earlobe that you use to measure your Pulse Oximeter must be clean and dry. Don't forget that in measuring the level of your oxygen machine, it provides better results if you remain motionless.

The Significance Of Placement Training For Pulse Oximetry

For accurate pulse oximetry readings, it is important that the medical staff using these machines should be properly trained in their operation. They will be able to detect the results accurately and know when to order more testing. If at any time you are instructed to use a pulse oximeter yourself at home, strictly follow guidelines and seek medical help if you have worries.

In short, pulse oximetry is a wonderful way to learn how effective our bodies are at bringing the oxygen they need. We can in fact use pulse oximetry wisely and well if we know the physiology of it, interpret readings with care, be aware of potential errors, manage all its measurement nuances and then train properly. As with monitoring our health, remember it is always better to be safe than sorry. Therefore, let us be alert and nice to the body of health.