Pulse Oximeters
A pulse oximeter is a small, non-invasive device that clips onto a finger, toe, or earlobe to measure blood oxygen saturation (SpO2) and pulse rate. It uses red and infrared light sensors to assess how much oxygen your blood is carrying, delivering readings within seconds for clinical observation and home monitoring.
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Pulse oximeters measure oxygen saturation and pulse rate using photoplethysmography, shining red and infrared light through tissue to estimate SpO2 without blood sampling. In UK primary care, they support monitoring for COPD, asthma and long COVID, assess respiratory status during acute illness, and form part of routine observations across GP surgeries, community clinics and post-operative recovery. Clinical-grade devices read within 2 to 3 percent of arterial blood gas measurements in healthy adults, though cold extremities, nail polish, movement and ambient light can all affect accuracy, and readings in patients with darker skin tones warrant interpretation alongside clinical presentation. Trend monitoring over time is generally more useful than a single reading. Williams Medical Supplies stocks CE-marked, ISO 13485-certified fingertip and handheld pulse oximeters from Mesi, Nonin and Masimo, suited to primary care, hospital and community settings, with fast UK dispatch across the range.