As fire/EMS providers, pulse oximeters are one of the most commonly used devices on our tool belt that help us better understand a patient’s medical condition.
That does not mean these devices are exclusively for patients who call 911, as you can find them virtually anywhere, from Dollar Tree, to CVS.
A small caveat before we jump in, and that is that I was always taught “treat the patient, not the numbers.” This means that pulse ox readings may not necessarily always correlate with medical condition, so don’t rely solely on these devices – seek medical attention if you don’t feel well.
Here, we will look at some affordable options that can be a great addition to your first aid bag or medicine cabinet at home.
Zacurate Pro Series 500DL Fingertip Pulse Oximeter
The most basic and reliable pulse oximeter option is the Zacurate Pro series pulse ox, with nearly a quarter-million reviews on Amazon and an astonishingly affordable price of $22.
This easy-to-use device is pretty self-explanatory, as it fits most finger sizes and displays a digital reading on the interface within 10 seconds. This version runs off of AAA batteries and features a silicon case to protect it from damage and debris. This version also comes with a lanyard for easy carrying and access.
Reviews are overwhelmingly positive.
Santamedical Dual Color OLED Pulse Oximeter
This quick and reliable device works on almost all finger sizes, from children to adults, due to the finger chamber design.
The bright OLED display allows clear reading in the dark, indoor or outdoor use. The oxygen saturation monitor shows real time pulse rate, pulse rate bar and SpO2 level. It’s light weight and easy to carry. This option includes 2-AAA batteries, a protective case, a neck/wrist cord and a 1-year warranty.
LBEAURG Fingertip Pulse Oximeter
If you’re not a big fan of changing batteries, the LBEAURG fingertip pulse ox features USB recharging capability, the same digital interface as the previous pulse ox, and comes in at an even more affordable $12.99. This pulse ox bolsters a quick and accurate reading in 3-5 seconds, offers 3 different display modes, and also comes equipped with a lanyard. This is a great product in terms of affordability and versatility.
Wellue Bluetooth Pulse Oximeter
If you’re not a fan of a small digital interface directly on the pulse oximeter itself, you might appreciate the Wellue Bluetooth pulse oximeter. This pulse oximeter connects directly to a free app, allowing you to track pulse ox readings in real time, view historical trends and generate detailed reports. It still also features a digital LED interface, so if you don’t want to use the app, you don’t necessarily have to. This product runs off of AAA batteries, but comes in as one of the most affordable pulse-ox monitors, at just $9.99.
CMI Health Rechargeable Pulse Oximeter
If you’re not worried about pricing and you’re looking for an item that checks all of the boxes, the CMI Health Rechargeable Pulse Oximeter is a great option for a myriad of users. This device comes with variable finger probes for use on both infants and adults, making it an all-in-one solution for pulse oximeter readings.
This is a great option for providers and home users alike. On the pricier side, at $149.99, in my opinion, it is worth it, considering the value you are getting. This device also comes with an alarm feature for continuous monitoring, a charging cable and a case for protection and storage of different finger probes. Despite the price tag, this item also comes with a 1-year warranty, adding even more value.
As you can see, there many options to choose from when it comes to pulse oximeters, all of which vary in pricing from very affordable to a little higher end.
These devices are only tools and should not be relied on solely to treat, diagnose or manage a medical condition. In the field, we use these in tandem with various other tools, such as stethoscopes, blood pressure cuffs and ECGs to get a better idea of what’s going on with our patient. We don’t rely on any of these alone and certainly not without clinical judgement. Still, these make great gadgets to have in your arsenal.
