Looking for a pulse oximeter? Medical Device Depot offers tips and suggestions for purchasing a pulse oximeter for your medical practice.
1. These units can either be stand-alone or part of a module in a larger patient monitor.
2. Most pulse oximeters can interface with printers, recorders, computers, or multiparameter monitoring systems. It is important to make sure that the purchased unit is compatible with existing equipment.
3. The unit should display at least 70% to 100% SpO2 values with an accuracy of 3%. Pulse-rate measurements should be accurate within 5 beats per minute within the range of 30-240 bpm.
4. The probes should provide accurate measurements while tolerating probe movement caused by the patients or clinicians.
5. In addition to SpO2 and pulse rate, the oximeter should also display pulse strength and low battery warnings.
6. Audible and visual alarms should alert for high and low SpO2/pulse rate, sensor off, and low battery. This will allow you to keep the pulse oximeter full operational at all times.
7. These units usually operate on AC power, and many have battery backup as well. The unit should switch automatically to battery power if line power fails.
8. Units intended for transport within the facility should operate at least four hours without charging for maximum efficiency.
9. Units intended for transport outside the facility should operate at least eight hours without charging for maximum efficiency.
10. In case of an oximeter that is unable to obtain accurate readings, there should be a clear indication, preferably with the reason.