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Using devices to measure SpO2 isn't overly complicated but isn't immune to potential errors during the process. Let's follow the essential tips compiled by Mytour right here!
Key Points for SpO2 Measurement
What is SpO2?
SpO2 stands for Peripheral Oxygen Saturation. In other words, SpO2 is the ratio of oxygenated hemoglobin (hemoglobin containing oxygen) to total hemoglobin in the blood. Hemoglobin, a protein found in red blood cells, determines the red color of blood.
The measurement of SpO2 can be done using pulse oximetry - an indirect, non-invasive method. Devices measuring blood oxygen levels work by emitting and absorbing a light wave passing through blood vessels or capillaries at the fingertip, toe, or earlobe. Changes in the light wave passing through the fingertip, toe, or earlobe will indicate the SpO2 measurement result as blood color changes according to the level of oxygen saturation.
What is a normal SpO2 level?
Blood oxygen saturation ≥ 94% is considered normal. Understanding and grasping SpO2 levels is essential for easy assessment of one's health:
- 97% to 99%: Good blood oxygen levels. - 94% to 96%: Average blood oxygen levels, may require supplemental oxygen. - 90% to 93%: Low blood oxygen levels, consult a doctor. - Below 90% indicates a clinical emergency.
Factors affecting SpO2 measurement
In reality, SpO2 readings may not be 100% accurate and can be influenced by several factors: - Patients with colds and low blood pressure. - Patients moving excessively. - Measurements taken under direct sunlight. - Use of nail polish on fingernails or toenails.
Symptoms of decreased SpO2
Low SpO2 (also known as hypoxia) causes the following symptoms: – Changes in skin color; – Decreased memory or forgetfulness; – Coughing; – Rapid heartbeat, slow heartbeat; – Difficulty breathing.
Why should SpO2 be measured regularly?
SpO2 is one of the 5 vital signs of human life. When your body doesn't receive enough oxygen, you may experience hypoxemia or hypoxia. These are dangerous conditions. When the body lacks oxygen, hypoxia (reduced SpO2) is a very dangerous condition. At that time, the brain, liver, and other body parts weaken due to lack of oxygenated blood. Therefore, you need to regularly use oxygen saturation measuring devices to ensure that your health situation is always progressing well and to intervene promptly when there are adverse effects.
6 simple steps to measure SpO2
Step 1: Clean the nails, do not keep them long, use fake nails, or nail polish
Step 2: Rest for 5 minutes before taking the measurement.
Step 3: Rub hands to warm them up.
Step 4: Turn on the device, place the middle or index finger into the device's mouth to clip the fingers together.
Step 5: To start the device, you need to press the power button. Do not move your hand while measuring. After a few seconds, the result will be displayed on the device's screen.
Step 6: At the end of the measurement process, remove your finger, and after a few seconds, the device will automatically turn off, recording the measurement result.
Dr. Phan Vu Anh Minh, from the University Medical Center Ho Chi Minh City, further explains: “The measurement results may not be accurate for individuals who have used photosensitizing drugs, those with high levels of photosensitive drugs. high optical density. abnormal hemoglobin, especially in cases of carbon monoxide poisoning and methemoglobin poisoning, individuals with low blood pressure, severe arterial constriction, anemia, or hypothermia.'
