Pulse Oximetry

Pulmonary Disease Tests at Washington Health Medical Group

Pulse oximetry is a test used to monitor oxygen saturation. A pulse oximeter is a device that looks at the oxygen saturation levels in the patient’s blood. A non-invasive device called a probe utilizes a clip mechanism to examine oxygen levels in extremities. Your doctor may attach the probe to your finger or ear lobe. Light technology measures oxygen levels, which can help your doctor at Washington Health Medical Group find out if you are getting enough oxygen.

Why Is Pulse Oximetry Used?

Your doctor may need to examine your oxygen levels if:

• You are in surgery and under sedation / have just undergone surgery with sedation
• You need to know if your body is able to handle an exercise program / increased activity
• You are taking lung medications and your doctor wants to measure how well these treatments are performing
• You need to determine if you need a ventilator to assist with breathing
• You have a ventilator to help your breathing and your doctor wishes to assess how well it is working
• You have recently been diagnosed with a condition that affects blood oxygen levels and your doctor wishes to assess your health; examples include anemia, lung cancer, pneumonia, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), cardiac arrest, heart failure, and asthma