Pulse oximeters have become essential medical devices, especially in recent times. As a leading supplier of pulse oximeters, I'm excited to share with you how these remarkable devices work.
The Basics of Pulse Oximetry
Pulse oximetry is a non - invasive method used to measure the oxygen saturation of arterial blood, commonly referred to as SpO₂. It also provides information about the heart rate. The principle behind pulse oximetry is based on the different absorption characteristics of oxygenated and deoxygenated hemoglobin in the blood when exposed to light.
Hemoglobin is the protein in red blood cells that binds to oxygen in the lungs and transports it to the body's tissues. Oxygenated hemoglobin (HbO₂) and deoxygenated hemoglobin (Hb) absorb light at different wavelengths. Pulse oximeters take advantage of this difference to measure the ratio of oxygenated to deoxygenated hemoglobin in the blood.
Components of a Pulse Oximeter
A typical pulse oximeter consists of two main parts: a probe and a display unit.
The probe is the part that is placed on a thin part of the body, usually a finger, toe, or earlobe. Inside the probe, there are two light - emitting diodes (LEDs) and a photodetector. One LED emits red light at a wavelength of around 660 nanometers, and the other emits infrared light at a wavelength of around 940 nanometers.
The display unit is where the measured values of SpO₂ and heart rate are shown. It processes the signals received from the probe and converts them into meaningful data that can be easily read by the user.
How the Probe Works
When the probe is placed on the body part, the two LEDs emit light into the tissue. The light passes through the tissue, including the blood vessels, and some of it is absorbed by the hemoglobin in the blood. The rest of the light is detected by the photodetector on the other side of the probe.
The amount of light absorbed by the hemoglobin depends on its oxygenation state. Oxygenated hemoglobin absorbs more infrared light and less red light, while deoxygenated hemoglobin absorbs more red light and less infrared light.
The photodetector measures the intensity of the transmitted light at both the red and infrared wavelengths. It then sends these signals to the display unit for processing.
Signal Processing in the Display Unit
The display unit receives the signals from the photodetector and performs a series of calculations to determine the SpO₂ and heart rate.
First, it separates the pulsatile and non - pulsatile components of the signal. The non - pulsatile component is due to the absorption of light by tissues other than the blood, such as skin, bones, and non - moving blood. The pulsatile component is due to the change in blood volume during each heartbeat.
The display unit calculates the ratio of the absorption of red light to infrared light based on the pulsatile component of the signal. This ratio is then used to estimate the SpO₂ value. A calibration curve is used to convert the ratio into a percentage value of oxygen saturation.
To measure the heart rate, the display unit analyzes the frequency of the pulsatile signal. Each pulse corresponds to one heartbeat, so by counting the number of pulses per minute, the heart rate can be determined.
Factors Affecting Pulse Oximeter Readings
Although pulse oximeters are generally reliable, there are several factors that can affect their readings.
Motion artifacts are a common problem. If the patient moves their finger or the probe is not properly placed, it can cause inaccurate readings. This is because motion can change the amount of light reaching the photodetector and introduce noise into the signal.
Poor perfusion, such as in cases of low blood pressure or cold extremities, can also affect the readings. When blood flow is reduced, there may not be enough blood in the tissue for the pulse oximeter to accurately measure the oxygen saturation.
Certain skin pigments, such as melanin, can absorb light and interfere with the measurement. Dark - skinned individuals may sometimes get slightly inaccurate readings, although modern pulse oximeters are designed to minimize this effect.
Our Range of Pulse Oximeters
As a supplier, we offer a wide range of high - quality pulse oximeters to meet different needs.
The LED Display Blood Oxygen Monitor Fingertip is a popular choice for home use. It features a clear LED display that shows the SpO₂ and heart rate values. It is easy to use, with a simple one - button operation. Just place your finger in the probe, and within seconds, you can get an accurate reading of your oxygen saturation and heart rate.
For children, we have the Children Finger Pulse Oximeter Prince - 100D. This oximeter is specially designed with a smaller probe to fit a child's finger comfortably. It has a bright display and is very sensitive, ensuring accurate readings even for small children.
Another great option for children is the Children Fingertip Pulse Oximeter. It is lightweight and portable, making it convenient for parents to carry around. It also has a soft and flexible probe that won't cause any discomfort to the child.
Why Choose Our Pulse Oximeters
Our pulse oximeters are manufactured using the latest technology and high - quality materials. They are accurate, reliable, and easy to use. We have a strict quality control process to ensure that each oximeter meets the highest standards.
We also offer excellent customer service. Our team of experts is always ready to answer your questions and provide you with technical support. Whether you are a healthcare professional or an individual looking for a home - use oximeter, we can help you choose the right product for your needs.
Contact Us for Procurement
If you are interested in purchasing our pulse oximeters, we would be more than happy to discuss your requirements. Whether you need a small quantity for personal use or a large order for a healthcare facility, we can offer you competitive prices and timely delivery.
Reach out to us to start a procurement discussion. We look forward to serving you and helping you get the best pulse oximeters for your needs.
References
- "Principles of Pulse Oximetry" by J. J. Tobin, in Principles and Practice of Intensive Care Monitoring.
- "Pulse Oximetry: Technology and Clinical Practice" edited by G. D. DuBois and C. J. Newth.
- "Non - Invasive Monitoring of Blood Oxygen Saturation" in Medical Instrumentation: Application and Design by J. G. Webster.