A pulse oximeter is a tool which measures the oxygen levels in the blood and the heart rate. The measures are expressed as the percent of oxygen saturation. This medical device function by shining light through the skin to the blood vessels below. Pulse oximeters are routinely used and can be bought over the counter. If the device shows close to 100 percent, which is a high oxygen saturation, it means that the red blood cells are fully loaded with oxygen from the lungs. So, if you are wondering how to use a finger pulse oximeter, this is the article you need to read.

How to Use a Finger Pulse Oximeter

Step 1: First, press the power button to turn on the pulse oximeter. The screen should light up almost instantly.

Step 2: Then, place the sensor on any finger. However, make sure the sensor screen is above the fingernail. There are some sensors without a screen. So, if you have one like that, run the cable along the back of the finger or hand. Make sure you don’t do this on your thumb because the readings are less reliable.

Step 3: Next, you should wait until the pulse oximeter acquires a signal, which might take about 10 seconds. You shouldn’t be moving or talking while using the device.

Step 4: The heart or pulsing light is the one which indicates your heart rate on the display. The symbol "SpO2" shows the percent of oxygen saturation. Some devices come with a pulse tone which beeps in time with the heart rate.

Step 5: You should leave the sensor on for continuous monitoring. You might feel uncomfortable if you leave the sensor on the finger for too long. So, you should check or move it at least every two to four hours. However, if you only need to make a single measurement, remove the sensor and press the power button to turn off the device.

Additional Tips

• If you want to know how actually pulse oximeters work, you should always read the manual for your specific pulse oximeter.
• Always place the sensor on the finger first prior to turning the device on.
• Make sure you don’t have any nail polish on your nails.
• The device might be less accurate if there is poor blood flow to the finger, which might happen due to low blood pressure, a heart attack, or coldness.
• Heavy cigarette smoking will show falsely high pulse oximeter readings.
• If you have recently arrived from some high place, the readings might show lower percent oxygen saturation due to the lower oxygen pressure in the air.

The normal percent oxygen saturation reading is in the 95 to 100 percent range. In case you see low oxygen saturation measurement, check signs of respiratory distress, such as wheezing, shortness of breath, and difficulty breathing. If your pulse oximeter measurement is below 90 percent and you notice such signs of respiratory distress, seek medical attention immediately.