Pulse oximetry in Barranquilla, Colombia

What is pulse oximetry?

It is a simple, painless test that measures the percentage of oxygen in the blood (saturation) and heart rate using a small light sensor placed on a finger, earlobe or, in babies, the foot or hand.

What is it used for?

To evaluate people with breathing difficulty, pneumonia, asthma, bronchiolitis or COVID-19; monitor those on home oxygen; watch patients during sedation procedures; and in sleep studies, where it records overnight to detect oxygen drops. In newborns it is used to screen for congenital heart disease.

What values are normal?

In healthy people at sea level, saturation is usually between 95 and 100%. In high-altitude cities, normal values can be somewhat lower. The doctor defines the right target for each person, especially with chronic lung disease.

What can affect the reading?

Cold hands, movement, poor circulation, nail polish or acrylic nails, bright light and, in some people with darker skin, the device may overestimate oxygen. A single number does not replace clinical evaluation: with breathing difficulty, blue lips or confusion, seek care even if the oximeter reads normal.

Find where to get pulse oximetry

On MedicosDoc you can find pulmonologists, pediatric pulmonologists, pulmonary function labs and sleep centers. Compare options and book your appointment.