Glossary Term
Pulse Oximeter
Definition
A pulse oximeter is a non-invasive medical device used to measure the oxygen saturation level (SpO2) of a patient’s blood, as well as heart rate. The device works by emitting light through a part of the patient’s body, typically a fingertip or earlobe, and using a sensor to detect how much light is absorbed by oxygenated and deoxygenated blood. This allows the pulse oximeter to calculate the percentage of oxygen in the blood and provide a real-time reading of respiratory function. Pulse oximeters are commonly used in hospitals, clinics, and homecare settings to monitor oxygen levels in patients, particularly those with respiratory conditions, during or after surgery, or for those with chronic respiratory illnesses such as COPD or asthma.
Relevance to the MedTech Industry
Pulse oximeters provide healthcare providers with a quick, accurate, and non-invasive measurement of a patient’s blood oxygen levels. This helps in diagnosing respiratory issues, monitoring the effects of treatments, and ensuring that oxygen therapy is being administered correctly. By monitoring oxygen saturation, pulse oximeters play a crucial role in preventing hypoxemia (low blood oxygen levels), which can lead to serious complications if left untreated.
Additional Information & Related Terms
Related Terms
SpO2 (Oxygen Saturation): The percentage of oxygen-saturated hemoglobin relative to total hemoglobin in the blood, which is the primary measurement provided by pulse oximeters.
Hypoxemia: A condition characterized by low levels of oxygen in the blood, which pulse oximeters help detect.
Capnography: A monitoring method that measures the concentration of carbon dioxide in exhaled air, often used alongside pulse oximetry to assess respiratory function.
Non-Invasive Monitoring: A category of medical monitoring that includes devices like pulse oximeters, which do not require surgical procedures or blood draws to obtain physiological measurements.