How does pulse oximetry work?
This is indeed a complex and interesting process. A pulse oximeter uses a beam of light transmitted through an area of the body, most generally a finger, however, toes and earlobes can be used as well under some circumstances, as in circulatory disorders or the presence of thick artificial nails or deep dark nail polish. The beam of light uses the color of our blood to determine the oxygenation of it. The color of our blood changes somewhat, depending on whether or not our red blood cells are adequately oxygenated. Well-oxygenated blood is generally bright red in color, and will absorb most of the light being transmitted through the oximeter. Poorly oxygenated blood is more dark red-to-purple in color, and will not absorb the beam of light as well. Another fascinating aspect of the pulse oximeter is its ability to distinguish between venous blood levels and arterial blood levels. The mechanics of this magnificent technology allows it to distinguish between the pulsating venous blood an
