Normal Pulse Rate in Oximeter: Understanding the Basics

Pulse oximeter is a small clip-like device that is attached to the finger to get the pulse rate reading. The device passes infrared rays through one’s fingertips to calculate the pulse rate and assess their heart health. The pulse oximeter reading helps one understand how fast their heart is beating and also shows the level of oxygen in their blood. In this blog, we will dive into what the normal pulse rate is and how pulse oximeters can help you get accurate readings of the same.

What is a Normal Pulse Rate?

Pulse rate is the measurement of heart rate. In other words, it represents the number of times our heart beats in a minute. It is one of the vital signs of body functioning used to detect or monitor medical problems. The normal pulse rate in oximeter is anywhere between 50 to 90 beats per minute.

When the heart pumps blood through the arteries, they expand and contract with the flow of the blood. Pulse or heart rate is the rate and which the arteries contract and expand due to the flow of blood during a cardiac cycle. The strength or amplitude of the pulse reflects the amount of blood pumped. In addition, the measurement of the force of blood in the arteries denotes the blood pressure in a human body.

The pulse oximeter reading varies from one person to another and females tend to have faster heart rates than males. This count changes for athletes who do cardiovascular training. They may get a reading of 40, which is absolutely normal for them. The normal pulse rate depends on several factors like age, gender and the stage of life. For example, a pregnant woman will have a different pulse reading than that of a normal healthy woman of the same age.

How Does an Oximeter Measure Pulse Rate?

The oximeter emits red and infrared light through the skin, tissue, blood, and nails. It then measures the amount of light passing minus the amount absorbed by tissue and blood. This is reading, which is also known as the PPG signal, contains information about the heart’s rhythm and rate. The PPG signal is evaluated to determine the pulse rate and amount of oxygen in the body.

Interpreting Pulse Rate Readings on an Oximeter

The following pulse oximeter chart gives a good interpretation of pulse oximeter reading

for the most accurate results:

Tips for Monitoring Pulse Rate Using an Oximeter

The pulse rate not only measures the heart rate but also gives indications of pulse strength and heart rhythm. Follow the below-mentioned tips for accurate monitoring of pulse oximeter readings:

1. First, remove all jewellery and nail polish from your finger.
2. Find a comfortable position and sit for at least a few minutes.
3. Keep your fingers warm and relaxed.
4. Position the oximeter on your finger, either your index (pointer) finger or your middle finger.
5. Hold the device for as long as you want to monitor the pulse rate.
6. Stay steady as the numbers may fluctuate.
7. Once the reading is steady there will be two numbers, one denoting normal pulse rate in oximeter and another denoting oxygen saturation.
8. Note down the pulse rate reading and take off the device from your finger.
9. Store it in a dry and safe place for future use.

Conclusion

Knowing one’s pulse rate is important as it indicates one’s fitness level, heart health, and risk of disease. Now that you are aware of the normal pulse rate in an oximeter and the intricacies of how it works, you should be able to understand when any medical intervention may be needed for you or your loved ones. However, it is important to not be alarmed and consult a medical professional for expert advice in case of abnormal readings.