Oximetry

Pulse oximetry is a non-invasive way to measure oxygen levels in the blood. It may be used in a home, office or medical facility setting to monitor the health of people with certain medical conditions that can affect their blood oxygen levels. A pulse oximeter is a device that attaches to the fingertip or earlobe and uses wavelengths of light to measure blood oxygen levels and heart rate. Continuous pulse oximetry measures oxygen levels for longer periods of time (1 hour or more). Pulse oximetry provides estimates of arterial oxyhemoglobin saturation (SaO2) by utilizing selected wavelengths of light to noninvasively determine the saturation of oxyhemoglobin (SpO2). An oximeter can be used to monitor and manage patients who require ventilator support, and patients with chronic lung disease (e.g. bronchopulmonary dysplasia, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease). An oximeter is also used by various health care personnel as an assessment tool. <a id="