A finger oximeter is a small, portable device that measures oxygen saturation and pulse directly on the finger. It is affordable and convenient for frequent monitoring of oxygen levels, but accuracy is important and FDA-approved models are recommended.
A finger oximeter is a portable pulse oximetry device that measures oxygen saturation (sat) and pulse. Instead of producing a reading on separately connected equipment, the reading is produced directly on the small clip that sits on the finger. This is the smallest of the pulse oximetry instruments, and many devices come with a lanyard that can be worn around the neck or wrist so that the pulse oximeter is easy to carry. For people who need to take pulse oximetry readings frequently to check their oxygen saturation or the sats of others, this is often the least expensive device to buy, and it’s affordable.
In theory, all pulse oximeter models are fingertip oximeters. The part of the device that reads oxygen saturation by passing infrared and other forms of light through a digit to get a satellite reading is typically found on a finger or, occasionally, a foot. What defines the finger oximeter is that it is not connected to other equipment such as a wrist band, handheld device, or monitor of some kind that produces the reading. Every other piece of equipment that accompanies a pulse oximeter makes it less convenient to carry. For people who need frequent oximetry readings, this can limit the ability to move or travel, which can impact quality of life.
Patients who require frequent monitoring of oxygen levels may find a fingertip oximeter useful and convenient. Physicians such as respiratory therapists or home nurses can also use these devices. Especially if traveling from home to home, these specialists may need to carry a significant amount of monitoring equipment with them. Having quick access to a device that produces a pulse oximetry reading can greatly ease the load on the equipment that needs to be transported.
It is important that the finger oximeter is accurate and there may be some differences in the reliability of these products. There is a fairly wide range of costs for finger pulse oximeters, and while price is an issue, the first priority should be accuracy. Fortunately, in countries like the United States, there is a way to determine how well a specific device will perform.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) tests and approves or disapproves each finger oximeter model. Purchasing an FDA-approved model is the best way to ensure accuracy. It is also important that the instructions for use are followed completely. If a patient or caregiver has difficulty understanding how to use the model you have purchased, you should consult your physician, respiratory therapist, or other physician for instruction and training.
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