How to use a finger pulse oximeter in 5 easy steps

A pulse oximeter is a medical device that measures heart rate and the oxygen level in the blood, expressed as the percent of oxygen saturation. Pulse oximeters operate by shining light through the skin to the blood vessels below. These devices are commonly used in many health care settings and are available over the counter. If you have high oxygen saturation (close to 100%) it indicates that the red blood cells are fully loaded with oxygen from the lungs.

Follow the steps to learn how to use a finger pulse oximeter:

Step 1
Turn on the pulse oximeter by firmly pressing the power button. The screen should light up almost instantly.

Step 2
Place the sensor, the part that opens and closes like a clothespin, on any finger, with the sensor screen above your fingernail. If the sensor doesn’t have a screen, run the cable along the back of your finger or hand. Don’t use the thumb because these readings are less reliable than finger readings.

Step 3
Wait until the pulse oximeter acquires a signal. This may take 10 seconds or more, depending on the device and the conditions. Excessive movement can decrease the accuracy of the result, so make sure to keep still.

Step 4
Look at the display to see the heart rate, usually indicated with a heart or pulsing light. The percent of oxygen saturation is typically indicated by the symbol “Sp02.” Many devices also have a pulse tone that beeps in time with the heart rate.

Step 5
Leave the sensor on for continuous monitoring. The sensor can become uncomfortable or cause pressure sores if you leave it on your finger for too long. Check and move the sensor at least every two to four hours. If only a single measurement is required, remove the sensor and press the power button to turn off the device.

Take a look at Supply Doctor’s wide range of medical equipment and supplies. There are many options to choose from, including pulse oximeters.

Why it’s so important to have a Pregnancy Ultrasound

An ultrasound or sonogram is a test that is offered to pregnant woman. It uses sound waves to create an image of the baby that is developing inside its mother’s womb. This is how doctors or health care providers can see the development as well as the health of the baby inside.

But, why is it so important to get an ultrasound when you are pregnant?

There are a range of reasons why, including checking for any problems, to produce images of the baby for the parents to see and to determine whether the child is male or female.

Here are some of the most important reasons why your doctor will need to do an ultrasound…

1. To confirm 100% that you are indeed pregnant

2. To check the baby’s age and growth – this will help you figure out the exact due date

3. To make sure everything is alright with the baby’s heartbeat, muscle tone, movement and overall development

4. To see if you are pregnant with twins, triplets or more

5. To screen for any birth defects, such as spina bifida or heart defects

6. To help with other prenatal tests

7. To examine your reproductive organs such as your ovaries and uterus

8. To check if there are any pregnancy complications that may include an ectopic pregnancy, molar pregnancy and miscarriage

What different kinds of ultrasound machines are used?

There are wide array of ultrasound machines that can be used, it all depends on what your doctor is checking for and how far along in your pregnancy you are.

The most common kinds of ultrasound machine are:

> Transabdominal Ultrasound
> Transvaginal Ultrasound
> Doppler Ultrasound
> 3-D Ultrasound
> 4-D Ultrasound

Supply Doctor is your one-stop online store for all your medical supplies, including a range of Ultrasound machines and accessories – order yours today from info@supplydoctor.co.za or call 021 110 0422

Avoiding Slips, Trips and Falls during the Wet Weather Season

When the weather takes a turn for the worst, there are usually a lot more people checking into the emergency room for slips, trips and falls.

However, the accidents that come with the wet weather are preventable is you just take the correct steps to protect yourself…

* Always take your time. If it is possible, avoid travelling in heavy rain, sleet or snow. However if you must go out, always take your time and be careful! If you are walking, choose to use sidewalks and pathways that are free of ice, overflowing water, etc. if you have to drive – use these 12 wet weather safety tips from PatrolMan.

* Dress according to the weather. Choose boots and shoes that are waterproof with non-slip soles or treads – L&A Safety offers a range of affordable, waterproof footwear for home and the workplace. Remember to also always wear gloves, a warm jacket and a scarf so you stay warm and avoid getting sick.

* Be careful in parking lots. If you live in an area that has ice or sleet, make sure to regularly clean the parking area or drive way. Hold on to your car door when you exit and take short steps – this tip also applies if you are walking in heavy rain.

* If you are injured, act quickly. Call for help immediately if you have been injured, some injuries may not seem serious, but may get worse later on. It is also a good idea to keep a fully stocked first aid kit close at hand for emergency situations – Supply Doctor offers high quality, affordable medical equipment and supplies, including first aid kits!

The number of slips, trips and falls increase in the winter months; luckily these incidents can be prevented using a few simple steps.