Pulse oximeters

Abstract

We evaluated 13 pulse oximeters from 12 manufacturers for clinical accuracy, safety, performance in the presence of various forms of interference, and human factors design. The most important factors on which we based our ratings were clinical accuracy, alarm characteristics, and response to interference. We rated 11 units Acceptable. Two units were rated Conditionally Acceptable because their alarms can be defeated or set to unrealistic values with no continuous indication, and users must take steps for proper use in order for these devices to be considered Acceptable.