Friday, May 16, 2014

Recording Pulse Oximeter Ideas And Features To Look Out For

By Tracie Knight


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.

The working of these gadgets depends on scientific principles commonly used. Oxygenated blood usually absorbs red light about 660nm while the deoxygenated blood absorbs infrared light at 940nm. The oximeters are thus designed with two LEDs at 660nm and 960nm and two sensors to gather the same. Once emitted, the LED lights go through tissues from where given amount is absorbed depends on oxygen levels in the blood. The rest is detected by sensors that process it into readable data. Some of the information made available from the device include pulse rate, oxygen absorption rate and the cardiovascular data.

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.

First of all, the brand and manufacturers should be FDA approved. Just like many other medical devices, these gadgets falls in the type II category and requires FDA approval before distribution to the public. It does not hurt to enter the brand name or manufacturer name through the FDA Medical Device Database and confirm.

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.

The device should also be relatively easy to use. If possible, it should be used by all family members without having to struggle. In fact, the user manual alone should be enough to guide you through without having to involve an expert. It should also be of the size that comfortably work for the targeted end user, be it children or adults.

Together with these, there are many other features that additionally contribute to optimal choice. These include the device memory and its ability to connect with the computer or a mobile phone to facilitate data analysis. There are those gadgets that have storage capacity for more than one individual. Such gadgets are considered to be better choice, particularly for the family.

The other issues include its battery life span, storage case, the logbook, its ease of storage, the general appearance and the software program in it. All these in addition to many other features can help select the best oximeter from the store.




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