What does a pulse oximeter measure?

A pulse oximeter is a non-invasive device that primarily measures the oxygen saturation level of a person's blood. It utilizes light-emitting diodes and a photodetector to determine how much oxygen is being carried by hemoglobin in the bloodstream. By comparing the absorption of light at different wavelengths, the device can accurately provide a percentage of oxygen saturation, which is critical in monitoring patients, especially those undergoing sedation or anesthesia.

Monitoring oxygen saturation is essential in various medical settings since low oxygen levels can indicate respiratory distress or inadequate oxygen delivery to tissues, making this measurement vital for patient safety and management.