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.
Even with the same working principles, different models differ in a number of ways. Most significantly though, there are critical differences where your selection criteria should be based on. It is advisable that the rice or brand name should not be the first issues to consider, but rather go deep and find out about their working.
To start with, the model must be FDA approved. Given that pulse oximeter falls in the class II classification of medical gadgets, it must have FDA approval before it can be sold to the public. Presently, the greater part of them have FDA approval, but just for confirmation, it is advisable to run through the FDA medical Device Database, enter the model name or manufacturer name and get details regarding its approvals.
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.
Other than this, simplicity also matters. As much as possible, the user guide should be enough to guide you through without having to hire services from an expert which significantly increases expenses. What this means is that the ideal device is very easy to use, read and interpret data. Additionally, its size should also be comfortable to carry around and store as required.
In addition the above mentioned features, there are several other features to look for in an oximeter. This includes its memory capacity, the possibility to connect with computers or phones for data processing. More so, the devices that have multi-person memory (store data for more than one person) are also considered superior.
Other issues that should also put into consideration are the battery lifespan, the case for the device, its logbook, the ease of storage and general appearance among others. If all these are put into consideration, then the value for money is likely to be realized.
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.
Even with the same working principles, different models differ in a number of ways. Most significantly though, there are critical differences where your selection criteria should be based on. It is advisable that the rice or brand name should not be the first issues to consider, but rather go deep and find out about their working.
To start with, the model must be FDA approved. Given that pulse oximeter falls in the class II classification of medical gadgets, it must have FDA approval before it can be sold to the public. Presently, the greater part of them have FDA approval, but just for confirmation, it is advisable to run through the FDA medical Device Database, enter the model name or manufacturer name and get details regarding its approvals.
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.
Other than this, simplicity also matters. As much as possible, the user guide should be enough to guide you through without having to hire services from an expert which significantly increases expenses. What this means is that the ideal device is very easy to use, read and interpret data. Additionally, its size should also be comfortable to carry around and store as required.
In addition the above mentioned features, there are several other features to look for in an oximeter. This includes its memory capacity, the possibility to connect with computers or phones for data processing. More so, the devices that have multi-person memory (store data for more than one person) are also considered superior.
Other issues that should also put into consideration are the battery lifespan, the case for the device, its logbook, the ease of storage and general appearance among others. If all these are put into consideration, then the value for money is likely to be realized.
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