Introduction
In this article, we will study How To Use Your Pulse Oximeter.
As you have symptoms of Covid-19, you – or your carer – have received a diary and pulse oximeter.
Covid-19 is a viral illness, which for most people is mild, but it can quickly become serious for some. That is why we need you to monitor your breathing, heart rate, and oxygen level in your blood.
By recording these measurements in the diary provided, you can help your GP – or 111 – decide on the best treatment for you.
A pulse oximeter monitors how fast your heartbeats and the level of oxygen in your blood.
To accurately assess your progress with Covid-19. An ideal blood-oxygen level is between 95 and 99%. A perfect heart rate is between 50 and 90.
How to use a pulse oximeter
- Remove any nail polish or false nails and warm your hand if cold.
- Rest for at least five minutes before taking your measurement.
- Rest your hand on your chest at heart level and hold it still.
- Switch on the pulse oximeter and place it on your middle or index finger.
- The reading takes time to steady. Keep the pulse oximeter in place for at least a minute or longer if the reading is not stable.
- Record the highest result once it has not changed for five seconds.
- Identify each reading carefully.
Write the information in the diary.
Start writing from the “baseline” and record three times a day at the exact times.
For instance, when you would typically eat meals. Take extra measurements if you feel a change in your health.
Go to your phone and immediately or Ring 109 if: You feel seriously ill.
You cannot complete short sentences while resting due to breathlessness, or your oxygen level is 92% or less, if it is; checks again immediately.
If it remains 92 or below, Go to your phone and immediately or Ring 109.
Ring your GP or 111 as soon as possible; if Your oxygen level is 93 or 94% when sitting or lying down and remains at this level after being rechecked within an hour.
You slowly start feeling more unwell or more breathless for two or more hours or You have difficulty breathing when getting up.
For instance, to go to the toilet.
It also helps to keep track of your temperature.
However, as long as your oxygen level and breathing are average, you don’t need to contact your GP or 111 if you have a temperature.
Other symptoms are generally less worrying. Paracetamol and regular fluids can help, and most people will get better by themselves within 2 to 3 weeks.
Conclusion:
Some people with COVID-19 may develop other problems or have different causes for their symptoms. If you are concerned, please visit the ICMR website for advice.
Even if you feel better, please keep the oximeter for at least 14 days, as some patients feel unwell again after the first week of symptoms.
After this, please return this to someone in need in the bag provided. And of course, please carefully follow government advice via the ICMR website. Thanks! And we wish you a speedy recovery!
What is a pulse oximeter and how to use it | Technology News,The Indian Express
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