The pulse oximeter technology has been in place for a very long time since it was first made commercially available in 1970s. At the time of introduction, the devices were so cumbersome and could weigh up to 35lbs. They were also uncomfortable to use and were so expensive selling at an average price of 10, 000 each. This has so far changed and getting a nice looking sizable recording pulse oximeter is not an issue any more.
Their working is based on scientific principles that have been in place for long. Ideally, oxygenated blood absorbs the red light at 660nm significantly different from 940nm where the deoxygenated blood absorbs infrared light. With this in mind, the gadgets are designed to emit the two light rays (red light and infrared light from) from LEDs. These are passed through the body tissues and absorbed by the data readings obtain includes the oxygen level in blood, the pulse rate and cardiovascular conditions.
Not all of these devices work in the same manner. It is therefore important to understand features of an ideal oximeter before setting off to buy one. The decisions should be based on the brand name or prices only, rather, focus on getting high quality devices at significantly lower price tag.
First of all, the brand and manufacturers should be FDA approved. Just like many other medical devices, these gadgets falls in the type II category and requires FDA approval before distribution to the public. It does not hurt to enter the brand name or manufacturer name through the FDA Medical Device Database and confirm.
The next and most important issue to consider is its accuracy and reliability. Given that its primary purpose is to measure oxygen saturation and the pulse rate, all efforts are focused on finding the device that is able to give the most accurate results in a consistent and reliable manner within its operation range. By comparing it with those used in medical centers, you should be able to select a better option.
As much as possible, your device should be easy to use. In fact, the manual guide should be enough to help you through. If you find yourself having to find an expert to help you, then the device is possibly not the right one. In addition to this, the size also matters. Most people prefer a sizable one that is easy to carry around and safely store.
Together with these, there are many other features that additionally contribute to optimal choice. These include the device memory and its ability to connect with the computer or a mobile phone to facilitate data analysis. There are those gadgets that have storage capacity for more than one individual. Such gadgets are considered to be better choice, particularly for the family.
Lastly, you should look at the battery life, the ease of storage, logbook, storage case and general appearance. This together with the software that it runs with matters a lot. If all measures are taken to select the best device, your health and that of family members will be better managed.
Their working is based on scientific principles that have been in place for long. Ideally, oxygenated blood absorbs the red light at 660nm significantly different from 940nm where the deoxygenated blood absorbs infrared light. With this in mind, the gadgets are designed to emit the two light rays (red light and infrared light from) from LEDs. These are passed through the body tissues and absorbed by the data readings obtain includes the oxygen level in blood, the pulse rate and cardiovascular conditions.
Not all of these devices work in the same manner. It is therefore important to understand features of an ideal oximeter before setting off to buy one. The decisions should be based on the brand name or prices only, rather, focus on getting high quality devices at significantly lower price tag.
First of all, the brand and manufacturers should be FDA approved. Just like many other medical devices, these gadgets falls in the type II category and requires FDA approval before distribution to the public. It does not hurt to enter the brand name or manufacturer name through the FDA Medical Device Database and confirm.
The next and most important issue to consider is its accuracy and reliability. Given that its primary purpose is to measure oxygen saturation and the pulse rate, all efforts are focused on finding the device that is able to give the most accurate results in a consistent and reliable manner within its operation range. By comparing it with those used in medical centers, you should be able to select a better option.
As much as possible, your device should be easy to use. In fact, the manual guide should be enough to help you through. If you find yourself having to find an expert to help you, then the device is possibly not the right one. In addition to this, the size also matters. Most people prefer a sizable one that is easy to carry around and safely store.
Together with these, there are many other features that additionally contribute to optimal choice. These include the device memory and its ability to connect with the computer or a mobile phone to facilitate data analysis. There are those gadgets that have storage capacity for more than one individual. Such gadgets are considered to be better choice, particularly for the family.
Lastly, you should look at the battery life, the ease of storage, logbook, storage case and general appearance. This together with the software that it runs with matters a lot. If all measures are taken to select the best device, your health and that of family members will be better managed.