The Covid-19 pandemic has forced into individual consciousness the importance of knowing whether or not one has sufficient oxygen dissolved in one’s bloodstream. Just like glucometers and blood pressure monitors earlier, the need has now arisen for people to have at home easy-to-use and portable instruments to measure this. The simplest way to do so is by using a fingertip pulse oximeter, which measures one’s SpO2, which is itself a reasonable approximation to the oxygen dissolved in one’s blood as a percentage of the maximum oxygen dissolvable in the same blood. You just place your finger into the grip and read the results off the display. Oximeters generally also measure the user’s Pulse Rate (PR), in beats per minute, and most also show the Perfusion Index (PI), which is a measure of the pulse strength at the sensor site (the finger in this case), and its graphical representation, the plethysmograph. Here are four options available on Amazon.
DR VAKU Fingertip Pulse Oximeter
This oximeter measures both the SpO2 and PR, showing these readings within 10 seconds on its two-colour OLED (Organic LED) display, which, being rotatable, enables the results to be read from any direction. Also displayed are the pulse wave, a bar graph and the battery level. The finger chamber is coated with hypo-allergenic medical-grade silicon, making it hygienic. There are also On/Off settings for measuring one’s PI, an alarm (for high/low readings) and sound (for the pulse beep). The unit automatically switches off after 10 seconds of inactivity. It runs on 2 AAA batteries and can be operated continuously for more than 20 hours. The SpO2 range and resolution are 0-100% and 1%, respectively, with an accuracy of ±2%. The PR range and accuracy are 30-250 bpm and ±2 bpm, respectively. Anti-Motion technology ensures that the readings remain accurate despite slight body movements.
Dr Trust Professional Series Fingertip Pulse Oximeter
This product measures the SpO2, PR and PI, showing these readings within 6 seconds on its multi-directional OLED display. Also displayed are the pulse bar graph and the respiratory rate (the number of breaths taken per minute while at rest). The lowest PI measurable is 0.2%, which is lower than that of most other oximeters. The unit automatically switches off after the finger is removed. It runs on 2 AAA batteries and has a Low Power indicator and an On/Off alarm setting. While not waterproof, it is water resistant, meaning that it can withstand an accidental splash of water. A lanyard is also included with the unit.
Hesley Fingertip Pulse Oximeter
This Oximeter displays the SpO2, PR and PI within 5 seconds on its bright, multi-directional OLED display. It has a Memory Function which can store 12 data sets. It has an Alarm Limit setting and an On/Off Beep Warning setting. The unit shuts down within 8 seconds of removing the finger. It runs on 2 AAA batteries, has a Low Battery indicator, and can be operated continuously for up to 24 hours. A hypo-allergenic latex-free material is coated inside the finger chamber, rendering it anti-allergic for all those with sensitive skin, while the oximeter itself is made of high-quality ABS material (a thermoplastic polymer), making it durable and strong. The SpO2 range, resolution and accuracy are 70-100%, 1% and ±2%, respectively, while the same for the PR are 30-240 bpm, 1 bpm and ±2 bpm, respectively. The accuracy for both parameters becomes ±3% after exercise. The unit includes a lanyard and a pouch.
ELKO EL-560 Fingertip Pulse Oximeter
This oximeter measures SpO2, PR and PI (with plethysmograph) showing these readings within 6 seconds on its multi-directional, dual-colour OLED display with 7 display modes. The display has 10 levels of brightness for comfortable readability. The unit automatically switches off on finger removal or after 8 seconds of inactivity. It runs on 2 AAA batteries and has a Low Battery indicator. The unit is made of high-grade ABS material and the finger chamber is made of anti-allergenic latex-free material. The SpO2 range and resolution are 70-100% and 1%, respectively, while the same for the PR are 30-250 bpm and 1 bpm, respectively, and for the PI are 0.3-20% and 0.1%, respectively. A lanyard is also included for secure portability.
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