You have been given a pulse oximeter to monitor your blood oxygen levels during your suspected COVID-19 infection. Please follow the instructions below.
- Attach the pulse oximeter to your finger and wait until the screen indicates two numbers: your SpO2 and pulse rate.
- SpO2 is a reading showing the amount of oxygen available in your blood to deliver to your heart, brain, lungs, and other muscles and organs.
- The pulse oximeter will also indicate your pulse rate on the screen.
- Please refer to the attached chart that shows what levels are normal, and when to seek medical attention if the readings are low.
- Your doctor may also have advised you to contact them to keep them updated with your results.
- To get an accurate reading, remove nail polish or false nails of any sort from the finger being used.
- It is also important to use the device on warm hands. If your hands are cold, try running them under warm water or rubbing them together.
Guidance on the results
During a severe breathing attack, it is possible to have a normal oxygen level. Seek medical help if you have severe shortness of breath, wheezing, or increased pulse rate, even if your oxygen saturation is normal.
If any of your readings are in the orange or red boxes below, you should seek advice according to that colour.
Further detail can be found in the leaflet below: