How to Read a Pulse Oximeter
Pulse oximeters are small devices that clip onto a finger or toe and measure how much oxygen is circulating in the blood (along with heart rate).
They’re a great tool to have on hand, especially with kids, because they give parents quick, objective insight into how well a child is breathing at home.
During illnesses, symptoms like cough or congestion can look alarming, but a pulse ox helps confirm whether oxygen levels are staying in a healthy range.
This can offer reassurance when numbers are normal to help prevent unnecessary doctor trips or help catch early signs that medical care may be needed, allowing parents to make informed decisions instead of guessing based on symptoms alone.
*Signs of respiratory distress still require evaluation, even if the pulse ox is normal
How to Read a Pulse Ox
When you put the pulse ox on the finger and turn It on, you will see wave lengths bobbing up and down (make sure you get one that shows these wavelengths). You want to wait and watch for an even waveform (looks like a jigsaw). It may take a while for kids, because they move. Don’t take the first number you see. You want an even waveform before you trust the number.
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