What is the correct rule to use pulse oximeter at home?

Pulse Oximeter is currently a widely discussed and popular name for the novelty of the novel corona virus. With the help of this small device, it is possible to easily measure the level of oxygen in the patient's body (SpO2 - but not the amount) and the pulse rate. 

What is the correct rule to use pulse oximeter at home? 

Since the question is about the correct rules of use, I am not going to discuss in detail how the pulse oximeter works.

How to use Pulse Oximeter -

1. First of all, the pulse oximeter measures the oxygen saturation percentage of hemoglobin in your blood (Saturation Percentage of O2 - SpO2) - not the amount of oxygen in the blood. In that case, for those who have anemia, having good SpO2 does not mean that there is enough oxygen in the body.

2. Your pulse oximeter is a small device with a small display screen and an on-switch. The oximeter will also have a finger holder that you can see by pressing on the clip mechanism.

3. To measure SpO2 and pulse rate, place the middle finger of your right hand down (as in the picture) and turn on the switch.

4. Rest without moving your finger - you'll see your SpO2 on the display in no time. Watch the five minute pull.

When to use a pulse oximeter -

At the moment if you have a cold, feel weak, shortness of breath, dizziness - you can measure SpO2 without delay, although there is no prohibition to measure SpO2 when you are completely healthy. It is recommended to measure SpO2 at rest.

1. If your SpO2 is 96% - 99%, measuring twice a day is enough.
2. If your SpO2 is 90% - 95%, measure once every hour for five minutes and write down SpO2 - see if there is any improvement. Monitor at night.
3. If your SpO2 is 80% - 90%, you need oxygen support. Continue to monitor continuously, do not take your finger out because SpO2 will increase as soon as you start taking oxygen - keep taking oxygen until SpO2 goes above 90% without oxygen support.
4. If your SpO2 is less than 80%, keep a continuous monitor and go to the nearest hospital immediately, you need ventilation assistance.

Note when measuring SpO2 in pulse oximeter -

• Keep the fingers dry - otherwise wipe well with a dry cotton cloth or tissue.
• Do not have nail polish on the fingers. If there is, first clean the nails with the remover and then wipe dry.
• Do not have mehndi on your fingers - if necessary, clean it with baking soda paste.
• If the finger is cold, rub it gently on a dry cloth and heat it.
• In bright light the pulse oximeter can give incorrect readings because the pulse oximeter works through photometry. Do not use a pulse oximeter in sunlight.
• Measure SpO2 at rest. A minimum of 5 minutes is recommended.
• I hope I have been able to answer your question.