Two main types of pulse oximeters are currently gaining attention in the industry: finger pulse oximeters and the more recent, the toe pulse oximeter. While monitoring oxygen saturation and pulse rate is a vital function of both devices, their designs and uses are different. Before we take a look at these two distinct oximeters, let us see what an oximeter is.
What is an Oximeter?
A pulse oximeter is a useful medical tool that is used to non-invasively assess a person’s pulse rate and oxygen saturation (SpO2). Healthcare practitioners utilize oximeters in clinical settings to keep an eye on patients who have respiratory disorders such as pneumonia, asthma, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Oximeters are used in surgery to make sure the patient’s anesthetic keeps their oxygen levels steady. Oximeters are essential for the ongoing assessment of patients’ respiratory conditions in critical care units. Additionally, essential to at-home healthcare, oxygen meters enable patients with long-term respiratory disorders to constantly monitor their oxygen saturation levels. Their accurate and prompt readings provide prompt interventions and enhance the quality of patient care.
How to Use the Toe Pulse Oximeter
- Set Up the Device: If the toe pulse oximeter runs on batteries, make sure the batteries are new and that it is in good operating order.
- Position the patient: Place the patient in a comfortable position so that their foot is visible and the toe that has to be measured is reachable. They can also lie down.
- Clean the Toe: Using a clean, dry cloth, wipe the toe to get rid of any debris, cream, or moisture that can obstruct the sensor’s precision.
- Use the Sensor: Position the toe pulse oximeter’s sensor on the chosen toe. Ascertain that it is positioned in the middle of the toe pad rather than on the nail. It must be placed on the big toe since it has more circulation.
- Safeguard the Sensor: To guarantee a snug fit, firmly fasten the toe pulse oximeter’s clip or strap if it has one.
- Boot the device: Press the power button to turn on the oximeter which is indicated by a bright screen.
- Study the Readings: Take note of the numbers on the screen. The patient’s pulse rate and oxygen saturation (SpO2) level will be obtained via the toe pulse oximeter and will be read till the readings become stable.
- Record the Outcome: Make a note of the oxygen saturation and heart rate measurements for your medical records or future reference.
- Remove the Sensor: Take the pulse oximeter off the toe after you’ve taken the required readings. If necessary, use a disinfectant wipe to gently clean the sensor.
When is the Toe Pulse Oximeter Used?
When finger-based measurements are problematic or impossible, the toe pulse oximeter is employed. It has uses in pediatric healthcare, particularly for young patients who might find finger measures difficult. Toe pulse oximeters are useful for patients with finger injuries or weak peripheral circulation such as Raynaud disease. When fingers are bandaged for post-operative monitoring, toe pulse oximeters allow continuous oxygen saturation monitoring. Due to their small size, toe pulse oximeters are frequently used in neonatal care, particularly for preterm infants.
Differences and Similarities Between Toe and Finger Pulse Oximeters
Anatomy and Design
Toe Pulse Oximeter
The toe pulse oximeter is a type of pulse oximeter that measures the pulse rate and oxygen saturation (SpO2) from the toe. The toe sensor, which projects light into the toe tissue at various wavelengths, is usually housed in a small, compact case. On the other end, a photodetector computes pulse rate and SpO2 by measuring light absorption. A tight toe clip or strap, battery compartment, and user-friendly LCD screen are among the device’s features.
Finger Pulse Oximeter
The finger pulse oximeter is another type of pulse oximeter that is portable and uses non-invasive methods to monitor pulse rate and oxygen saturation (SpO2). It is made up of a small housing with a finger sensor that allows light to be emitted through the fingertip at various wavelengths. In addition to measuring light absorption, a photodetector on the opposite side computes pulse rate and SpO2. The gadget features an easy-to-use display screen, a battery compartment, and maybe a strap or finger clip for a secure fit.
Applications and Scenarios
Toe Pulse Oximeter
Specialized uses for toe pulse oximeters exist in the medical field, especially for patients with deformities of the fingers. In critical situations, home healthcare, and pediatric care, they provide a cozy substitute. With their ability to provide precise readings of oxygen saturation and pulse rate, pulse oximeters are a useful tool for patients with impaired peripheral circulation or finger injuries. They are useful for keeping an eye on kids, patients with finger ailments, and others who have difficult access to their fingers. Toe pulse oximeters are a useful tool in neonatal care to check on the health of premature neonates.
Finger Pulse Oximeter
Finger pulse oximeters are essential to home healthcare, critical care, post-operative care, and monitoring of patients with respiratory disorders. In order to monitor oxygen saturation and pulse rate in patients of all ages and to provide real-time data for prompt actions, finger pulse oximeters are indispensable. Attached to the patient’s finger, they provide a quick and non-invasive evaluation of the respiratory condition of patients during surgeries, emergency procedures, and sleep studies.
Cost and Accessibility
Toe Pulse Oximeter
Compared to finger pulse oximeters, toe pulse oximeters could offer fewer alternatives because they are specialist instruments. Their limited supply may make them comparatively more expensive. However, the brand and features may have an impact on the price. Toe pulse oximeters may need more specialized sourcing, although finger pulse oximeters are generally available.
Finger Pulse Oximeter
Finger pulse oximeters are common and easily accessible medical equipment. The price of finger pulse oximeters varies according to the model, features, and quality. Owing to their popularity and extensive use, these devices are reasonably priced. They are also readily available to a wide spectrum of users, as medical supply stores, pharmacies, and internet sellers carry them.
Measurement Principle
The same spectrophotometric theory underlies the operation of both toe and finger pulse oximeters. They pulse light through the tissue at various wavelengths, measuring the light absorption to determine the oxygen saturation (SpO2) levels and pulse rate.
Display & User Interface
Both finger and toe pulse oximeters have an easy-to-use display screen that displays SpO2 and pulse rate readings. To make using them easier, they frequently contain simple buttons or touch controls.
Accuracy and Reliability
The accuracy and dependability of both the finger and toe pulse oximeters have long been established. They provide consistent readings within the ±2% to ±3% accuracy range and are widely utilized in the healthcare industry. Because of their dependability, they are the preferred option in critical and general care settings, guaranteeing efficient patient monitoring.
Conclusion
In terms of measuring site, patient comfort for particular patient groups, and use scenarios, the toe pulse oximeter is different from the finger pulse oximeter. When finger-based measures are difficult or inconvenient, the toe pulse oximeter is a useful substitute because it provides accurate and dependable oxygen saturation values for better patient care. In order to ensure effective monitoring and better healthcare results, healthcare providers must take into account the unique demands and circumstances of each patient while selecting the right type of pulse oximeter.