One of the most important technology advances in clinical patient monitoring is the medical device called a pulse oximiter. Pulse oximeters calculate oxygen saturation. They are widely used in hospitals, surgeries, and operating theater’s to check patients vital signs.
Applications of Pulse Oximeters
1: To maintain arterial blood oxygenation
Oximetry tracks arterial blood oxygenation in many medical emergencies and situations. For example infants and adults with cardiopulmonary complications can be monitored for changes in arterial oxygen saturation with a noninvasive pulse oximeter. Pulse oximeters also enhance patient safety by alerting the physician to irregular oxygen levels.
2: Diagnose lung diseases
People with lung problems also experience low oxygen levels that can lead to severe symptoms including coughing, and shortness of breath. For patients with continual obstructive pulmonary ailment (COPD), long-term oxygen levels are checked by pulse oximeters.
3: In cardiac disorders
Pulse oximetry is highly beneficial in monitoring hypoxemia and the severity of acute coronary heart failure. Patients with moderate to slight acute coronary heart failure may also display a modest decrease in oxygen saturation, while patients with intense coronary heart failure have intense oxygen desaturation, even at rest. Pulse oximetry is beneficial for tracking the patient’s reaction to supplemental oxygen and different therapies.
4: Screening Congenital Heart Diseases
Most babies are born with sufficient oxygen in their blood. However, generally 1 child in a hundred is born with a congenital coronary heart defect. Early detection and management is essential. A small soft sensor can be wrapped around the babies hand or foot. The sensor is hooked up to a monitor that measures the oxygen level in the blood and the heart rate. It is fast, easy, and does not hurt at all.
