What does a pulse oximeter measure?

A pulse oximeter is a non-invasive device that specifically measures the oxygen saturation level in a patient's blood. It works by passing light through a user's fingertip or earlobe and analyzing the absorption of different wavelengths by oxygenated and deoxygenated hemoglobin. This allows healthcare providers to assess how well oxygen is being transported throughout the body, which is critical for evaluating a patient's respiratory function.

While other vital signs like heart rate, blood pressure, and respiratory rate are essential for overall patient evaluation, they are not the primary functions of a pulse oximeter. Therefore, understanding the main function of this device is crucial for correctly interpreting the readings it provides in clinical settings.