Health
Related: About this forumPulse Oximeter Accuracy and Limitations: FDA Safety Communication
Just heard, on PBS, instrument may not create accurate measurement for people of color.
https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/safety-communications/pulse-oximeter-accuracy-and-limitations-fda-safety-communication

hlthe2b
(108,924 posts)(I'm not a fan, but I'll leave the ..... ) to the imagination.
Still, it can be a valuable tool. Remember though if you live at high altitudes, a NORMAL value for PO2 will be lower than at sea level.
FarPoint
(13,884 posts)cool fingers...it will reflect a lower reading....It's just a handy cheap tool...One needs to assess the lungs, heart as well...
CrispyQ
(39,367 posts)Timewas
(2,400 posts)If oyu have even heavy callouses or dirt on the finger you use it will not be accurate. It depends on a pulse of light...
have cold fingers it won’t measure mine. Usually have to warm them up before I try to use the pulse oximeter.