Which Finger Is Best for Pulse Oximeter to Read Oxygen Saturation
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Keeping track of your oxygen saturation levels is crucial. Here, you will learn which finger is best for pulse oximeter for the most accurate results.
Pulse oximetry is a painless and noninvasive test that measures a person’s oxygen saturation levels. It can swiftly detect even slight changes in how efficiently oxygen is being transported to the organs furthest from the heart, including the arms and the legs.
The pulse oximeter is a small, clip-like device that is commonly placed on a finger to get readings. It is often used in a critical care institution such as hospitals and emergency rooms. Some physicians, such as pulmonologists, might use it in their office. In this article, you will learn the uses of pulse oximetry, which finger is best for pulse oximeter, and much more.
Which Finger Is Best for Pulse Oximeter?
Most health care professionals prefer index fingers. Research has proven that the index finger on the dominant hand is the most accurate. For example, if you’re right-handed, the right middle finger would be the best option.
Studies performed with readings from all fingers have discovered that pulse oximetry measurements should be obtained using the index, ring, and middle fingers. The thumb and pinky aren’t recommended as the readings from each of the three middle fingers showed to be equally accurate.
Accurate readings are mostly achieved when the fingers are used. Removing any fingernail polish provides even better results. Also, you ought to be still every time a reading is taken, as motion will affect blood circulation.
How Does Finger Oximetry Work?
Since now you have learned which finger is best for pulse oximeter, you might be wondering how does this device work?
An accurate Pulse Oximeter release beams of different wavelengths through your finger. The wavelengths target hemoglobin, which is the protein responsible for carrying oxygen. Depending on how these proteins are saturated with oxygen, they will absorb different wavelengths.
The device is more accurate when your hands are warm, and since oxygen levels vary throughout the day, it is advisable to several readings on different times of the day.
What Is A Normal Finger Oximetry Reading?
In normal conditions, your blood should be carrying over 89% oxygen. This is the sum that keeps your body and cells healthy. If reading is lower than that, it doesn’t necessarily mean that it is dangerous unless it’s consistent or repetitive. Recorded levels below 90% typically considered problematic and above 95%, usually regarded as healthy. Results from the best pulse oximeter are constant within a 2% gap of the normal saturation levels.
How Accurate Is Finger Oximetry?
When done correctly, research has shown that the accuracy of finger pulse oximetry is between 80% and 100%. The readings from pulse oximeters are deemed accurate and are employed in emergency rooms and operations.
It is also essential to be aware that utilizing pulse oximeters in your home is secure and reliable. The best portable pulse oximeter will provide accurate readings, just like the ones used by physicians. However, just like the expert pulse oximeters, the home devices can sometimes give a faulty reading.
If you receive a low reading with other symptoms, then you should look for medical assistance. Low readings with no indicators are most likely the consequence of a faulty reading.
The Best Pulse Oximeter for Fingers
Below are our top 3 most recommended pulse oximeters for fingers:
Sitting at the top of our list is the Mibest Finger Pulse Oximeter. This is one of our most favorite pulse oximeters for three main reasons: affordability, quality, and reliability. Also, we love this device since it is portable, user friendly, and comes fully packed and ready for use right out of the box.
Coming on number two is the Innovo Deluxe. If you are searching for an excellent device that will not hurt your pocket, then this is the best choice, which explains the reason why it sits close to the top of our listing. It stands out from the rest due to its reliability and accuracy.
Finally, we have AccuMed CMS-50D, which is another good alternative for everybody searching for an accurate pulse oximeter. It includes a bright LED display that is equipped with automatic screen rotation, meaning the screen will show on whatever side is the most suitable for you.
The Bottom Line
A pulse oximeter is a valuable device for people having specific health issues. While these devices are mostly found in health care facilities such as hospitals, it might be great to have one at home. However, you need to know which finger is best for the pulse oximeter to ensure you are getting the most accurate results.