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Oximetry

Oximetry is a medical test that uses a device called an oximeter to measure the amount of oxygen in the blood (oxygen saturation). A special sensor in a cuff or clip is placed on the end of a person's finger or toe or on the person's earlobe, and it measures the amount of oxygen in the blood flowing in the tiny blood vessels.

Last Revised: May 9, 2011

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine & Andrew Swan, MD, CCFP, FCFP - Family Medicine & R. Steven Tharratt, MD, MPVM, FACP, FCCP - Pulmonology, Critical Care Medicine, Medical Toxicology

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