Pulse oximeters: For consumers

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• Pulse oximeter limitations
• What we recommend

Pulse oximeter limitations

Different pulse oximeters and their sensors may have different accuracy. Several reports have been published about the accuracy of pulse oximeters.

Some reports indicate that pulse oximeter readings can be less accurate in people with dark skin. This means that for people with dark skin, the pulse oximeter reading may display as normal (for example, 94%) when the individual actually has low blood oxygen saturation (for example, 88%).

Reports have also indicated that pulse oximeter readings may be less accurate as true oxygen saturation decreases.

Reports also indicate other factors may affect the accuracy of pulse oximeters:

• how the oximeter was used
  • incorrect sensor
  • incorrectly applied sensor (for example, tightness, fit and location)
  • improper finger placement
  • excessive movement
• physical traits and medical conditions
  • severe low iron levels (anemia)
  • low blood pressure (hypotension)
  • low body temperature (hypothermia)
  • finger size (due to a mismatch between finger and sensor size)
  • finger nails (wearing polish, artificial nails, very long nails)
• the environment in which the reading was taken
  • excessive light
  • extreme moisture (use of sanitizers, rain)
  • cold (warm hands give optimal performance)

What we recommend

If you use a pulse oximeter, especially if you have dark skin, you should not rely on the pulse oximeter reading as the only measure of your oxygenation level. Consider other signs when deciding if you need to seek medical attention, such as if you have:

• chest pain
• difficulty breathing
• shortness of breath
• fast pulse or heart rate
• blue, white or grey face, lips, gums or nails
• a pulse oximeter reading that is decreasing over time

You should also:

• follow the manufacturer's instructions when using your device
• talk to your health care provider about what to do if there’s a problem with using the device

You should contact the manufacturer:

• if there’s a technical problem with the device
• if you’re concerned about your device’s performance
• to make sure your device will work for you, for example:
  • if you have dark skin or an underlying medical condition

Check that your device is licensed in Canada:

• Medical devices active licences search

Report a complaint with your pulse oximeters

Report a problem with a medical device