What is a blood oxygen level test?
A blood oxygen level test, also known as a blood gas analysis, measures the amount of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the blood. When you breathe, your lungs take in (inhale) oxygen and breathe out (exhale) carbon dioxide. If there is an imbalance in the oxygen and carbon dioxide levels in your blood, it can mean your lungs aren't working well.
Oxygen level Heart rate How do I read the numbers on the screen? Your oxygen meter shows two numbers. The oxygen level is labeled SpO2. The other number is your heart rate. For most people, a normal oxygen level is 95% or higher and a normal heart rate is generally below 100. The oximeter is a simple device that measures the amount of oxygen in the blood. It’s used to determine the oxygen saturation level of the body. A regular reading is between 90 and 95 percent, but if the level is too high, it can sign an underlying medical condition. A blood oxygen level test is used to check how well your lungs are working and measure the acid-base balance in your blood. The test usually includes the following measurements: Oxygen content (O2CT). This measures the amount of oxygen in the blood. Oxygen saturation (O2Sat). Pulse Oximeter Fingertip, Blood Oxygen Saturation Monitor for Pulse Rate, Heart Rate Monitor and SpO2 Levels with OLED Screen Display Batteries and Lanyard Included 1 Count (Pack of 1) 4.7 out of 5.
A blood oxygen level test also checks the balance of acids and bases, known as pH balance, in the blood. Too much or too little acid in the blood can mean there is a problem with your lungs or kidneys.
Other names: blood gas test, arterial blood gases, ABG, blood gas analysis, oxygen saturation test
What is it used for?
A blood oxygen level test is used to check how well your lungs are working and measure the acid-base balance in your blood. The test usually includes the following measurements:
- Oxygen content (O2CT). This measures the amount of oxygen in the blood.
- Oxygen saturation (O2Sat). This measures the amount of hemoglobin in your blood. Hemoglobin is a protein in your red blood cells that carries oxygen from your lungs to the rest of your body.
- Partial pressure of oxygen (PaO2). This measures the pressure of oxygen dissolved in the blood. It helps show how well oxygen moves from your lungs to your bloodstream.
- Partial pressure of carbon dioxide (PaCO2). This measures the amount of carbon dioxide in the blood.
- pH. This measures the balance of acids and bases in the blood.
Why do I need a blood oxygen level test?
There are many reasons this test is ordered. You may need a blood oxygen level test if you:
- Have trouble breathing
- Have frequent periods of nausea and/or vomiting
- Are being treated for a lung disease, such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or cystic fibrosis. The test can help to see if treatment is working.
- Recently injured your head or neck, which can affect your breathing
- Had a drug overdose
- Are receiving oxygen therapy while in the hospital. The test can help make sure you are getting the right amount of oxygen.
- Have carbon monoxide poisoning
- Have a smoke inhalation injury
A newborn baby may also need this test if he or she is having trouble breathing.
What happens during a blood oxygen level test?
Most blood tests take a sample from a vein. For this test, a health care provider will take a sample of blood from an artery. That's because blood from an artery has higher oxygen levels than blood from a vein. The sample is usually taken from an artery inside the wrist. This is called the radial artery. Sometimes the sample is taken from an artery in the elbow or the groin. If a newborn is being tested, the sample may be taken from the baby's heel or umbilical cord.
During the procedure, your provider will insert a needle with a syringe into the artery. You may feel a sharp pain as the needle goes into the artery. Getting a blood sample from an artery is usually more painful than getting blood from a vein, a more common type of blood test procedure.
Once the syringe is filled with blood, your provider will put a bandage over the puncture site. After the procedure, you or a provider will need to apply firm pressure to the site for 5–10 minutes, or even longer if you are taking a blood-thinning medicine.
Will I need to do anything to prepare for the test?
If your blood sample is taken from your wrist, your health care provider may perform a circulation test called an Allen test before taking the sample. In an Allen test, your provider will apply pressure to the arteries in your wrist for several seconds.
If you are on oxygen therapy, your oxygen may be turned off for about 20 minutes before the test. This is called a room air test. This won't be done if you are unable breathe without the oxygen.
Are there any risks to the test?
There is very little risk to having a blood oxygen level test. You may have some bleeding, bruising, or soreness at the spot where the needle was put in. Though problems are rare, you should avoid lifting heavy objects for 24 hours after the test.
What do the results mean?
If your blood oxygen level results are not normal, it may mean you:
- Are not taking in enough oxygen
- Are not getting rid of enough carbon dioxide
- Have an imbalance in your acid-base levels
These conditions can be signs of a lung or kidney disease. The test can't diagnose specific diseases, but if your results are not normal, your health care provider will order more tests to confirm or rule out a diagnosis. If you have questions about your results, talk to your health care provider.
Learn more about laboratory tests, reference ranges, and understanding results.
Is there anything else I need to know about blood oxygen level tests?
Another type of test, called pulse oximetry, also checks blood oxygen levels. This test doesn't use a needle or require a blood sample. In pulse oximetry, a small clip-like device with a special sensor is attached to your fingertip, toe, or earlobe. Since the device measures oxygen 'peripherally'(in an outer area), the results are given as peripheral oxygen saturation, also known as SpO2.
References
- Allina Health [Internet]. Minneapolis: Allina Health; c2018. Blood Gases; [cited 2018 Apr 10]; [about 3 screens]. Available from: https://wellness.allinahealth.org/library/content/1/3855
- American Lung Association [Internet]. Chicago: American Lung Association; c2018. How Lungs Work; [cited 2018 Apr 10]; [about 3 screens]. Available from: http://www.lung.org/lung-health-and-diseases/how-lungs-work
- Hinkle J, Cheever K. Brunner & Suddarth's Handbook of Laboratory and Diagnostic Tests. 2nd Ed, Kindle. Philadelphia: Wolters Kluwer Health, Lippincott Williams & Wilkins; c2014. Arterial Blood Gas Analysis (ABG) Analysis; p. 59.
- Lab Tests Online [Internet]. Washington D.C.: American Association for Clinical Chemistry; c2001–2018. Blood Gases; [updated 2018 Apr 9; cited 2018 Apr 10]; [about 3 screens]. Available from: https://labtestsonline.org/tests/blood-gases
- Merck Manual Consumer Version [Internet]. Kenilworth (NJ): Merck & Co. Inc.; c2018. Arterial Blood Gas (ABG) Analysis; [cited 2018 Apr 10]; [about 2 screens]. Available from: https://www.merckmanuals.com/home/lung-and-airway-disorders/diagnosis-of-lung-disorders/arterial-blood-gas-abg-analysis
- National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute [Internet]. Bethesda (MD): U.S. Department of Health and Human Services; How the Lungs Work; [cited 2018 Apr 10]; [about 3 screens]. Available from: https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health-topics/how-lungs-work
- Nurse.org [Internet]. Bellevue (WA): Nurse.org; Know Your ABGs—Arterial Blood Gases Explained; 2017 Oct 26 [cited 2018 Apr 10]; [about 4 screens]. Available from: https://nurse.org/articles/arterial-blood-gas-test
- University of Rochester Medical Center [Internet]. Rochester (NY): University of Rochester Medical Center; c2018. Health Encyclopedia: Arterial Blood Gas (ABG); [cited 2018 Apr 10]; [about 2 screens]. Available from: https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/encyclopedia/content.aspx?ContentTypeID=167&ContentID;=arterial_blood_gas
- UW Health [Internet]. Madison (WI): University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics Authority; c2018. Arterial Blood Gases: How It Feels; [updated 2017 Mar 25; cited 2018 Apr 10]; [about 6 screens]. Available from: https://www.uwhealth.org/health/topic/medicaltest/arterial-blood-gases/hw2343.html#hw2395
- UW Health [Internet]. Madison (WI): University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics Authority; c2018. Arterial Blood Gases: How It Is Done; [updated 2017 Mar 25; cited 2018 Apr 10]; [about 5 screens]. Available from: https://www.uwhealth.org/health/topic/medicaltest/arterial-blood-gases/hw2343.html#hw2384
- UW Health [Internet]. Madison (WI): University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics Authority; c2018. Arterial Blood Gases: Risks; [updated 2017 Mar 25; cited 2018 Apr 10]; [about 7 screens]. Available from: https://www.uwhealth.org/health/topic/medicaltest/arterial-blood-gases/hw2343.html#hw2397
- UW Health [Internet]. Madison (WI): University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics Authority; c2018. Arterial Blood Gases: Test Overview; [updated 2017 Mar 25; cited 2018 Apr 10]; [about 2 screens]. Available from: https://www.uwhealth.org/health/topic/medicaltest/arterial-blood-gases/hw2343.html#hw2346
- UW Health [Internet]. Madison (WI): University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics Authority; c2018. Arterial Blood Gases: Why It Is Done; [updated 2017 Mar 25; cited 2018 Apr 10]; [about 3 screens]. Available from: https://www.uwhealth.org/health/topic/medicaltest/arterial-blood-gases/hw2343.html#hw2374
- World Health Organization [Internet]. Geneva: World Health Organization; c2018. Pulse Oximetry Training Manual; [cited 2018 Apr 10]; [about 3 screens]. Available from: http://www.who.int/patientsafety/safesurgery/pulse_oximetry/who_ps_pulse_oxymetry_training_manual_en.pdf
A suitable alternative to blood gas testing, the pulse oximeter is a cheaper alternative to going to a lab to get your blood drawn, especially if you don’t like needles or have enough healthcare insurance. With a pulse oximeter, you have a simple and painless way to determine your blood oxygen level so you can prevent health issues before they occur. Here are a few tips on what to look for in the best pulse oximeter and a few reviews to help you start shopping.
Zacurate 500BL - Best Blood Oxygen Meter
Using FDA and CE standards, the Zacurate 500BL is a popular choice among health professionals. It was designed for sports enthusiasts and pilots who need to find out the Pulse Rate (PR) and Blood Oxygen Saturation Levels (Sp02) while on the go. This is a handy device that has a large LED display that faces you allowing you to read it easily.
You only need to clip it to your finger and turn it on to read it easily and with its small size, you can easily carry it around. The Zacurate 500BL is accurate for SpO2 reading up to +/- 2% following FDA standards. It also comes with an infrared shield protecting the device from the environment to guarantee that you are getting accurate readings.
Battery changes are a quick and easy with the snap-off battery cover so you can remove and replace batteries without any hassle. The Zacurate 500BL has a finger chamber that uses the Smart Spring System so it can accommodate a wide variety of finger sizes. It also comes with a convenient lanyard, 2 AAA batteries allowing you to use it as soon as you receive it, and a twelve-month warranty.
- Easy and intuitive to use
- You get a reading in under ten seconds
- Comes with a sturdy nylon pouch
Blood Oxygen Level Meter Amazon
Cons
- Not good for people who need a quick reading
- Readout doesn’t always work
Innovo Deluxe iP900AP - Best Finger Pulse Oximeter for Nurses
If you are looking for a reliable and accurate oximeter, the Innovo Deluxe iP900AP contains both the Perfusion Index (PI) and Plethysmograph in the same unit. It can determine when is the best time to take a reading so you won’t have to wonder if your reading is accurate. The PI will tell you how strong your pulse is notifying you if you are too cold or not position correctly.
The plethysmograph gives you a visual representation of your heartbeat with a continual waveform notifying you of a good blood flow. The display on the Innovo is multi-directional giving you six different layouts to choose from adding to the unit’s versatility and ease of use. You can also set an auditory alarm to notify you when your rates are beyond the set limits.
This oximeter is designed for sports and aviation use and can be used in recreational settings, sports settings, and home use. It might not work on kids or adults with small hands. The unit also includes 2 AAA batteries, a lanyard for added convenience, and a one-year manufacturer warranty.
- Highly detailed instruction manual
- Easy to read the screen with a very accurate oximeter
- Comfortable and easy to use
Cons
- Very finicky to use
- Takes a little time to get a reading
Zacurate Pro Series 500DL - Best Oximeter for Doctors and Respiratory Therapists
Created as an updated 50DL, the Zacurate Pro Series 500DL allows you to reliably and accurately find out your Pulse Rate, Pulse Strength, and your Sp02. With a design aimed for use by pilots and sports enthusiasts, it has a large LED display that faces you for easy readings in under ten seconds. The high-quality finger chamber is constructed of medical grade silicone that is latex free and hypoallergenic.
You get easy readings by just clipping the device to your finger and turning it on with the press of a button. The Sp02 accuracy is +/- 2% following FDA and CD standards for health professional use. Hardware and software have also been upgraded and it is now the only LED pulse oximeter that displays up to 100% for SpO2 value.
The Zacurate Pro Series 500DL also has easy battery removal and replacement with a fast snap-off battery cover. It is also able to accommodate a wide variety of finger sizes with the Smart Spring System. This portable device also comes with a lanyard, 2 AAA batteries, and a silicon cover that will protect it from dirt and damage.
- Numbers in the reading are large
- Easy to use and your finger fits comfortably
- Accurate readings are great for those taking care of loved ones at home
Cons
- Oxygen levels run lower than what you see at the doctor’s office
- Has an old-fashioned display
Santamedical Generation 2 - Best Pulse Oximeter for Sleep Apnea
Capable of fitting a variety of finger sizes, the Santamedical Oximeter provides results in less than ten seconds. This is an accurate and reliable device that shows your results in real time.
Blood Oxygen Level Meters For Sale
Affordable and precise, the FDA approved Santamedical Oximeter is a finger clamp that is self-adjusting. This is an easy to operate device that works with just the push of a button. Not only will it show the Pulse Rate and Sp02, but it uses a plethysmograph device which measures the change in the volume of your blood.
This easy to use device gives you results in four different directions and includes six modes allowing you to view the display from any angle. The Santamedical is a very portable device thanks to its small size and the bright LED display allows you to view your results even in low light. You also get over thirty hours of continuous monitoring for each set of batteries you use.
Equipped with a neck or wrist strap, you can easily take this unit with you when you are on the go. This is the perfect device to use for spot checks of blood oxygen and pulse rates when doing outdoor or recreational activities. Other features include an automatic power off and battery level indicator, and it comes with a user manual, 2 AAA batteries, and a one-year warranty.
- You receive your accurate results in less than ten seconds
- Only 1-2% off the doctor’s office results
- Great device for anyone that deals with breathing issues
Cons
- Needs a case or cover for protection
- The battery compartment doesn’t work well
AccuMed CMS-50D - Best Pediatric Oximeter
Have all your vitals at your fingertips with the Accumed CMS-50D Oximeter. This is an easy and quick device to operate by sampling aligning your finger with the red light and turning the oximeter on. Your results are available in just ten seconds giving you a non-invasive and painless reading of your pulse rate and blood oxygen level.
Not only do you get your Sp02 level and Pulse rate, but the AccuMed also displays your pulse intensity as a bar graph while a pulse wave shows you the strength of your pulse. After five seconds of inactivity, the AccuMed powers off automatically giving you up to 32 continuous hours of battery life. This lightweight and portable design weighs only 50 grams and easily travels with a convenient travel case or on the included lanyard for easy access.
The bright display on the AccuMed is clear, prevents ambient light washout, and rotates automatically by detecting your hand movement. This is a great device for travelers, pilots, or athletic enthusiasts. It fits all finger sizes from a four-year-old up to an adult.
- A very reliable unit that is pretty much foolproof
- High-quality medical instrument
- Modes make it easy to get results quickly
![Blood oxygen level meter Blood oxygen level meter](/uploads/1/3/7/4/137466347/112302924.jpeg)
Cons
- The acrylic display can crack easily
- Silicone case stretches out and won’t stay on the device
TempIR Finger Pulse Oximeter
The user-friendly TempIR Finger Pulse Oximeter is a dedicated Sp02 and pulse oximeter device. Designed specifically for these function, it has advanced technology that is solely focused on these functions to give you a more precise reading. The display shows both readings in just a few seconds by using a non-invasive sensor to analyze the blood in your finger, plus it fits your finger perfectly with the spring system that is self-adjusting.
Helping to enact early medical intervention that can stop future health problems, the TempIR has a large, multi-directional color display allowing you to easily see results from any angle. This portable and small device comes with a protective pouch making it easy to take it with you wherever you go. It also uses photoplethysmography or waveforms as well as a perfusion index to confirm that your Pulse Rate and Sp02 has been taken properly.
This affordable and robust device is constructed with high-density ABS plastic and comes with a lanyard for easy access. The TempIR is easy to operate and only need a one button touch to set with alarms to indicate either a low or high reading. This is a great device for sports enthusiast as well as for home use.
- Accurate when you compare it to a doctor’s office measurements
- Very portable and easy to take to the gym
- Reliable and precise with some great features
Cons
- Has a slow response rate
- Battery cover falls off easily
MeasuPro OX200 - Best Oxygen Monitor for Home Use
Receiving your results in just three seconds, the MeasuPro Pulse Oximeter is great for sports enthusiasts or those that travel a lot. Providing an accurate reading of your heart rate and blood oxygen saturation levels, you only need to turn it on and insert your finger into the clip to get an accurate reading within +/- 2%. Your results are displayed clearly on the large OLED screen that rotates allowing you six different angles to see the readings.
Results are provided through a waveform called plethysmograph and a bar graph that gives you a numerical reading. You also get a perfusion index reading that tells you what your pulse strength is. This unit is constructed with a silicone material that is latex free and hypoallergenic.
This lightweight and compact device is also very durable and comes with a fingertip clip that is cushioned fitting all sized fingers without any pain. Simply press one button to find out your results. The MeasuPro also comes with a lanyard so you have easy access to readings whenever you need it.
- Perfect for use at home
- Reads the same as what they use in the hospital
- Well-built and will survive a few falls
Cons
- Plastic housing makes it seem cheap
- Back cover breaks easily making it hard to keep on
Buying Guide
How Pulse Oximetry Devices Work
A pulse oximeter works in a very simple way. By just clipping the device onto your finger, a light from the oximeter is emitted into your finger. The emitted light has two different wavelengths of light that are absorbed by the oxygen molecules and hemoglobin that they are attached to and measured by a sensor on the other side.
If the sensor is calibrated correctly, it can distinguish how many hemoglobin cells are in the blood that is passing the nearest artery and how many of the cells have an attached. This reading is called your peripheral capillary oxygen saturation also known as SpO2.
Benefits of Using a Pulse Oximeter
Fitness Monitoring
If you have ever been out of shape, you know how difficult it can be to maintain oxygen levels when you have sudden heavy physical demands placed on your body. When you use a pulse oximetry device when you work out, you can push your body farther without worrying out about getting sick or placing your body to the point of complete exhaustion.
High Altitude Sports
Athletes in high altitude sports run the risk of oxygen deprivation so it is important to make sure you are aware of issues before they become a serious health problem. This includes sports like hang gliding, skydiving, or mountain climbing where being able to determine arterial blood oxygen levels is important and could save your life.
COPD Management
Those that suffer from COPD where their lungs have become damaged and their body can no longer make repairs. With this condition, it is important to monitor blood oxygen levels to know when your lungs aren’t giving you enough oxygen and therapy or medication may be needed.
Asthma Patient Care
Asthma attacks can also be debilitating and a pulse oximeter can let you know when your airways are becoming restricted before it becomes a serious issue. This allows you to use your inhaler before and asthmas attack happens.
Pulmonary Patients
There are also other rare pulmonary conditions that affect the lungs and are life-threatening. A pulse oximeter can benefit these patients by alerting them to changes in their arterial blood oxygen levels a serious complication happens.
Low Maintenance
After they are calibrated, a pulse oximeter will work the same for the next few years. After a startup check has been performed, their circuitry is never needed again.
Low Cost
A pulse oximeter is usually very affordable with few costing over $50. Plus, the majority will come with a warranty. This makes the pulse oximeter one of the least expensive home health monitor devices you can find.
Less Invasive Than Blood Gas Testing
The less invasive the better for most people, especially if the thought of needles causes them anxiety. Although it can’t tell you what your carbon dioxide levels are, a pulse oximeter can confirm if your oxygen levels are low when you are not feeling well letting you know it might be time to head to the hospital for treatment.
Accurate Pulse Reading
If you have been counting your heartbeat with your two fingers, you are probably not getting the most reliable results. A pulse oximeter can give you more accurate and reliable results, especially if you are having serious issues like a racing heart or overexertion.
How to Use a Pulse Oximeter Properly
Although oximeters are very easy to use, there are certain things you should avoid to make sure you get the best reading possible:
- Fingernail polish can hinder getting a correct reading, you may want to use an earlobe.
- Make sure to take your readings where there are low-light or normal conditions and avoid sunlight and bright overhead lighting.
- Don’t move while you are testing since body movement including sneezing and shivering can affect getting a correct reading.
Remember that if you have circulatory or respiratory conditions, the readings you get from your pulse oximeter will need to be interpreted differently. You can find that information with the device’s user manual.
And, always make sure to talk to your healthcare provider to on how to use the results you get from your pulse oximeter to correctly determine what is going on with your health.
What to Look for in a Pulse Oximetry Device
Accuracy
As you are shopping, you will want to find a pulse oximeter that is guaranteed within 2% (plus or minus) of actual SpO2 levels. It also needs to be accurate up to 70% oxygen saturation. This means that even if your arterial oxygen levels aren’t perfect, the pulse oximeter is still giving an accurate reading and you will know if you need to seek medical attention.
Warning Systems
You will also want to look for three warning systems that include:
- Irregular Heartbeat – a warning alarm should sound if your heartbeat isn’t constant and steady including any heart arrhythmias that may be of concern.
- Low SpO2 – even though you will see a low number on the screen, you should also have a warning beep for low SpO2 concentrations. Especially since you can also have blurred vision or dizziness when you are suffering from inadequate O2 concentrations.
- Low Battery – this is also important, so the battery won’t just die when you don’t expect, especially for those that rely on an oximeter for disease management.
Portability
Being able to carry your device with is important for most people who need to monitor their SpO2 with an oximeter. Those using it because they are a pilot or sports enthusiast, it is still handy to have the device in your pocket or around your neck.
Lightweight
Since you are looking for portability, having a unit that may be small in size but heavy and uncomfortable to use doesn’t make it a great device to take with you all the time. A lightweight unit may be easier for you to carry on you, especially on a handy lanyard. Keep in mind though that the weight of the oximeter does affect how durable it is, especially since heavier units can get damaged when they are accidentally dropped.
Durability
The difference between a cheap piece of equipment and something very durable can also mean the difference between life and death. You want a pulse oximeter that is durable enough to take a drop to the ground, being immersed in water, or have protection against humidity. When a pulse oximeter is damaged in any way, it can fail or give you inaccurate readings which can be life-threatening.
Fitment
If you have large fingers, an adjustable oximeter is a great choice, especially if you find non-adjustable units uncomfortable. You may find that you have to squeeze too hard or not hard enough with non-adjustable oximeters. With an adjustable brand, you are able to choose your comfort level so you aren’t dreading have testing throughout the day.
Automatically-Activated
Devices that turn on automatically when you insert a finger or toe is helpful, especially if you are weak from a low oxygen level and monitor your Sp02 frequently meaning the difference between life and death in some cases.
Bright Visible Display
Having a backlit display and font color combinations are great features to have in a pulse oximeter so you can see in the bad light. Adjustable brightness helps to work in any lighting condition while displays that have multiple viewing angles are very convenient so you aren’t straining to read the device.
Conclusion
Since a pulse oximeter is incredibly accurate and inexpensive, having the ability to check your pulse and Sp02 at home is a no-brainer. Especially for those suffering from potential health problems, monitoring your heart rate and oxygen levels can make a big difference in how large a serious medical condition can become. This handy tool could mean the difference between taking some medication or ending up in the hospital for an extended stay.