WHICH PULSE OXIMETER TO CHOOSE?

WHICH PULSE OXIMETER TO CHOOSE?

The oximeter is a device whose use has become widespread with models adapted for domestic use. SpO2 measurement has become a necessity in the monitoring of long-term oxygen therapy in patients with chronic lung disease. This monitoring is especially important during physical exertion in such patients.

With the wide range of oximeters available on the market, it is important to find the model that will best meet the need for quality and performance in SpO2 measurement.

CAN WE TRUST THE MANUFACTURER?

SpO2 measurement accuracy figures are the parameters to look for when purchasing an oximeter. However, it is difficult for a purchaser to know for sure whether these figures comply with international values for the quality requirements of these devices.

There is an international ISO standard 80601-2-61 which can be used as a basis for making the right choice. However, it is difficult in practice to find an oximeter with this standard. The main criterion is an inaccuracy of less than 4% for the SpO2 measurement. The oximeters that you will find on the main market sites are those that meet the 60601-1-2 standard, which is not sufficient to attest to a good measurement (standard without metrological value).

Apart from the accuracy of the measured data, it is very easy to see that the alternative brands of lower quality are saving on the materials used. The capture is a first element but the screen can also hold surprises. The contrast is lower on lower quality devices. This makes it much more difficult to read the data, or even impossible outdoors:

HOW TO CHOOSE A PULSE OXIMETER?

The direct measurement of SpO2 by sensor does not have the same accuracy as a direct measurement on a blood sample. Only the use of portable pulse oximeters is an ideal solution that makes ambulatory measurement on patients possible. The measurement of SpO2 is subject to physiological limitations in terms of the tissue flow, the pulsatile variation of the blood and the local haemoglobin concentration. These limitations are the real impediments to accurate SpO2 measurement.

Pulse oximeters work with different sensors that have different abilities to make the correct calculations from the values obtained during the measurement. It is therefore difficult to determine which oximeters are available on the market that will be able to meet the accuracy requirements for SpO2 measurement. The international standard ISO 80 601 - 2 - 61 is unfortunately still not well known. It is entitled "Special requirements for basic safety and essential performance for pulse oximeters". This standard governs the reliability of pulse oximeters. It was updated in 2011 and is based on accuracy criteria for SpO2 measurement. Although we can't say more, this article at least gives you an idea of what to look for in the instructions: an inaccuracy of less than 4% between 70 and 99% SpO2 (although we don't know if this has been verified).

Finally, favour oximeters that have the obligatory labels (CE). In order to be able to affix the CE mark to a product, the manufacturer must compile a technical file demonstrating that the product complies with all EU requirements, which is still a good sign of the product's reliability.