Pulse oximeters are devices that measure the oxygen saturation in a person's blood. They are used medically by patients with COPD, asthma, and other respiratory conditions. Pilots also find oximeters to be a very valuable tool to help guard against hypoxia.  This guide will give you the information you need to pick the oximeter that best suits your needs.

HOW PULSE OXIMETRY WORKS  

Pulse oximeters take advantage of the fact that the color of arterial blood varies depending on the amount of oxygen it contains. Highly oxygenated blood is bright red, while blood with less oxygen is a much darker red. A probe, or in the case of a fingertip oximeter, the unit itself, is placed on your fingertip (probes can also be placed on your earlobe). The oximeter shines two beams of light through the fingertip (or earlobe) to sort out the color of the blood and determine your oxygen saturation level. Oximeters also measure your pulse rate.

Oximeters can be used for spot-checks, or to continually monitor your oxygen level and pulse rate. Fingertip pulse oximeters are battery operated, so they can be used anywhere.

CHOOSING A MEDICAL PULSE OXIMETER 

There are several different styles of pulse oximeters, from the large models used in hospitals, to handheld units and portable fingertip oximeters.  We will focus on handheld and fingertip oximeters, since these are the most common among eBay shoppers.

Handheld Models

Handheld pulse oximeters make use of a probe, which is attached to the unit with a cord. You place the probe onto your finger or earlobe, and turn the oximeter on. Your readings appear on a display screen on the unit.  Handheld oximeters are usually more appropriate in a clinical setting than in the home. Some have the capability to print out readings, and/or to download them onto a computer. Some also have built in memory, so you can view a trend of your recent sat levels.  Physicians like the fact that it's easier to clip the probe on a patient who is unable to provide much assistance. Handheld models are much more expensive than fingertip oximeters, starting at around $500.

There are two major brand name makers of handheld pulse oximeters - BCI/Smith Medical and Nonin.  Each of these manufacturers makes several  models, with different options and combinations of options.  These models range from the basic Nonin 8500 or BCI 3301, both of which have no memory or printing capabilities, to the more advanced BCI 3403 or Nonin 8500MA.  If you are interested in a handheld oximeter, think about how you're planning to use it and what options you require.  Then call or write your eBay seller for suggestions of the best model that will meet all your needs.  You can also visit the manufacturers' websites (just do a Google search on BCI or Nonin) for more information about the different models available.

Fingertip Models

Fingertip pulse oximeters are very compact, most weighing only a few ounces. They are available in two basic designs. The Nonin Onyx 9500 features a clip design, which opens like a clamshell, allowing you to insert your finger into the opening. The SPO-5500 and BCI Digit feature a rubber boot or sleeve, into which you place your finger. With either option, you just insert your finger and turn the oximeter on. Your oxygen saturation level and pulse rate are displayed in seconds on a lighted display screen.

The portability of fingertip oximeters makes them a very popular choice for home use, and for medical professionals who are "on the go" (RTs, EMTs, etc). The SPO-5500 oximeter, for example, measures just 2.91" by 1.57" x 1.61". It can easily be stored in your pocket or purse. They are also much less expensive than handheld units, starting at just $179.

There are three major manufacturers of fingertip pulse oximeters - SPO Medical, Nonin and BCI/Smith Medical, and they are all very similar to one another as far as performance is concerned.  There are a few key points to consider when deciding among these three brands:

• The BCI Digit fingertip oximeter is the most durable of the three.  If your oximeter will be subjected to extremely rough treatment, like dropping it frequently, this is the unit for you.  However, it is also the most expensive, so if you do not plan to abuse your oximeter, it is probably not worth the extra cost.
• The Nonin Onyx 9500 fingertip oximeter features the unique clip design (see above).  If you have large fingers, or will be using the oximeter on patients who may have large fingers, this should be your choice.  Price-wise, it is in the mid range of the three major brands.
• The SPO-5500 is the most cost effective model available.  If you don't require the clip design, and you don't plan on treating your oximeter roughly, you can save a good deal of money by choosing the SPO unit.

When deciding which fingertip pulse oximeter to buy, remember that a higher price doesn't equal higher quality.  The three models listed above will all give accurate, reliable oxygen saturation readings and pulse rates.  Pick the one that best fits your specific needs and your budget.  However, do keep in mind that if a price seems too good to be true, it probably is.  The SPO Medical 5500 oximeter is currently the lowest priced FDA-approved medical oximeter available, at $179.  There are a few pulse oximeter models that have recently been introduced to the market that sell for much less.  These models are made in China and are not approved, tested or regulated by the FDA.  We have researched the units, and found them to be inaccurate and very poorly made.  You should exercise extreme caution when considering one of these pulse oximeters.

NON-MEDICAL OXIMETERS 

Hypoxia is a major concern for pilots who fly non-pressurized airplanes. Pilots are required to use supplemental oxygen when flying above certain altitudes. However, many have found that their oxygen saturation level begins dropping at a much lower altitude than stated in the regulations. A fingertip oximeter can be used to help you determine when to start using supplemental oxygen. As a guideline, you should never allow your saturation level to fall below 10 percentage points under your stable home level. For example, if your saturation level at home is normally 97%, adjust your oxygen flow rate so that the level doesn't fall below 87%.

SPO Medical, long known for their SPO-5500 medical fingertip pulse oximeter, has recently released the "Check Mate" fingertip pulse oximeter. This is a non-medical oximeter that is especially designed to be used while in motion. This makes it perfect for pilots, who can receive inaccurate readings from some other oximeters, due to the vibrations in the cockpit. At $179, it is an affordable way to obtain peace of mind. Nonin also makes a Flight Stat non-medical oximeter.  The Flight Stat features the same clip design of the Nonin medical oximeter, but tends to perform poorly when subjected to excessive motion.

SUMMARY

In summary, when choosing an oximeter, ask yourself these questions: How and where will I be using it? Will a small, portable unit work best for me? Do I need printing or downloading capabilities? Will I be using it on patients for whom a probe might be easier? Do I need a medical or non-medical oximeter? What is my price range? With the answers in mind, and the information above, you will be ready to make an informed decision that you’re sure to be happy with.

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 Copyright 01/23/2006, Affordable Med Supplies, Inc.  All rights reserved.  The contents of this work shall not be used, in whole or in part, without the express written permission of Affordable Med Supplies, Inc.