What is a Pulse Oximeter?

A pulse oximeter measures your oxygen saturation (SpO2) levels in your blood and heart rate. It’s often clipped onto a finger, but some models can be placed on toes or earlobes. This small device helps people track their oxygen levels, especially if they have respiratory or heart issues.

How Does a Pulse Oximeter Work?

Pulse oximeters bright light through your skin to check the oxygen saturation in your blood. Here’s how it works:

1. Red and infrared light passes through your finger or toe.
2. The light measures how much oxygen is carried by your red blood cells.
3. The device’s sensor calculates your oxygen saturation (SpO2) and heart rate.

How Does a Pulse Oximeter Measure Heart Rate?

The oximeter monitors changes in blood flow caused by each heartbeat. It detects the pulse and displays your heart rate (in beats per minute) along with oxygen levels.

Best Pulse Oximeters in Pakistan: Features & Prices

In Pakistan, oximeters are available at various prices and models. Below is an in-depth guide to some top-rated pulse oximeters, their features, and prices.

1. BPL Cleo Plus Pulse Oximeter

Price: This BPL Cleo Plus Pulse Oximeter price in Pakistan is ₨150,000.

BPL Cleo Plus provides highly accurate SpO2 readings with advanced monitoring features.

Key Features

• High precision and reliability
• Ideal for critical care
• Large display for real-time monitoring
• Suitable for both adult and pediatric patients

This model is an investment for professionals requiring top-notch monitoring equipment.

Also Read: Stethoscope Prices in Pakistan: A Complete Guide to Stethoscopes

2. BPL Smart Oxy Finger Tip Pulse Oximeter

Price: Medical Hut provides this Finger Tip Pulse Oximeter in Pakistan at ₨8,000 price

Key Features

• Compact design for easy use
• Measures SpO2 and heart rate
• Automatic power-off feature
• OLED display with clear readings

This oximeter strikes a balance between price and performance, making it a great option for families.

3. Certeza Finger Pulse Oximeter PO-910

Price: This Certeza finger pulse oximeter price in Pakistan is ₨5,699

Key Features

• Lightweight and easy to carry
• Accurate SpO2 and pulse rate readings
• LED display for better visibility
• Battery-saving auto power-off function

This oximeter is popular for its affordability and reliability

4. ChoiceMMed Hand Held Pulse Oximeter (MD300M)

Price: Medical Hut offers this ChoiceMMed handheld pulse oximeter in Pakistan at ₨44,000 price.

Key Features

• Handheld design with enhanced precision
• Suitable for continuous monitoring
• Compatible with multiple probes
• Ideal for both adults and children

This oximeter is recommended for clinics and homecare professionals looking for durable equipment.

5. COVIDIEN NELLCOR Pulse Oximeter PM10N

Price: COVIDIEN NELLCOR Pulse Oximeter price is ₨150,000 in Pakistan.

Key Features

• Compact and portable design
• Suitable for neonatal, pediatric, and adult patients
• Highly accurate in low oxygen conditions
• Data storage and transfer options

This oximeter is perfect for intensive care settings requiring advanced monitoring capabilities.

Also Read: Best Blood Pressure Monitors

6. Schiller Oxywave Tabletop Pulse Oximeter

Price: ₨180,500
Schiller Oxywave is a tabletop pulse oximeter used for continuous monitoring of critical patients. It provides extensive data for precise patient management.

Key Features

• Large display for easy monitoring
• Continuous SpO2 tracking
• Multiple alarm settings for safety
• Compatible with various probes

Which Pulse Oximeter is Best for You?

• Home Users: BPL Smart Oxy or Certeza PO-910 are affordable and easy to use at home.
• Clinics and Healthcare Professionals: ChoiceMMed MD300M offers portability with professional-grade monitoring.
• Hospitals and Critical Care: COVIDIEN NELLCOR PM10N and Schiller Oxywave are top choices for intensive care units.

Can a Finger Pulse Oximeter Be Used on a Toe?

Yes, you can use a finger pulse oximeter on a toe. Make sure the toe is clean and warm for better results.

How to Measure Oxygen Saturation Without a Pulse Oximeter

If you don’t have a pulse oximeter, it can be hard to get exact readings, but there are some ways to observe oxygen levels:

1. Breath Test: See how long you can comfortably hold your breath. If it’s less than 30 seconds, your oxygen levels may be low.
2. Skin and Lip Color: Check for signs of pale or bluish skin, which could indicate low oxygen.
3. Breathing Pattern: Shallow or fast breathing may point to low oxygen levels.

These methods are not as reliable as a pulse oximeter but can give a general idea of respiratory health.

How to Make a Pulse Oximeter (DIY Approach)

Building a pulse oximeter at home requires advanced skills in electronics and programming. Here’s a simplified process:

1. Get an infrared and red LED sensor.
2. An Arduino board is used to connect the sensors and process signals.
3. Program the Arduino to calculate pulse rate and SpO2 levels.
4. Display the results on an LCD screen.

Note that homemade pulse oximeters might not provide reliable readings like professional devices.

Why Use a Pulse Oximeter?

Monitoring your oxygen levels at home is essential for people with:

• Chronic lung diseases (like asthma or COPD)
• Pneumonia
• Heart conditions
• Those at high altitudes or undergoing physical training

Conclusion

Pulse oximeters are vital tools for monitoring health at home. In Pakistan, prices are affordable for most basic models, with plenty of options available. Understanding how they work and knowing when to use them ensures you stay on top of your health.

If you don’t have access to a pulse oximeter, monitoring symptoms like breathlessness or skin color changes can help. However, using a pulse oximeter is the most accurate way to check oxygen levels and heart rate regularly.