pulse oximeter probes

with the advent of the device called a pulse oximeter, getting oxygen saturation has been much safer, quicker and less intrusive. A pulse oximeter measures the arterial oxygen saturation of the patient in just mere seconds. The measurements obtained from arterial blood gases can take several minutes to be acquired and are typically gotten by a respiratory therapist, which is then transported to the laboratory, measured, and the finally reported back to the physician. The information from such analysis is very important for the patient. However, the oximeter can also do the same function, but in a much quicker and safer way, ensuring that the patient does not suffer from the unnecessary effects of hypoxia.

Even though being less precise than an arterial blood gas measurement, oximeters are accurate with most patients, most particularly in emergency situations where every second matters. Also, little or even no training at all is needed for using a pulse oximeter. Most oximeters have only one button. Also, as long as the probe is properly placed, it can be used without even referring to the manual.