FAQs
Pulse Oximeter Links:
What is a Pulse Oximeter?
What the Pulse Oximeter tells you.
How a Pulse Oximeter works.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS FOR THE PULSEOX 5500
1. Q: When should I turn the PulseOx ON, before or after I put it on my finger?
A: The reading process will be shorter, if you first put the PulseOx on your finger and then turn it ON.
2. Q: After I start the PulseOx, I only get dashes.
A: This is normal for the first 20 seconds. If it takes longer than 20 seconds to get a reading, it may be indicating that the unit is too tight on your finger, causing impairment or restriction of the circulation. Pull your finger out a little and restart the unit. If the second try is unsuccessful, repeat the insert/start process on a smaller finger. On people (or children) with very small fingers, try using the thumb.
3. Q: I get a “weak signal” icon, what does this mean?
A. After starting and getting a good reading, if the sensor does not receive a signal for more than about 5 seconds, this icon will appear, even though the display continues to show its last update. It may be indicating that the unit is too tight on the finger and restricting or stopping circulation - refer to FAQ # 2.
4. Q: I get a “sensor off” icon, what does this mean?
A: The sensor will shut down if no signal is detected over a 20 second period. It may also indicate that the unit is too tight on the finger and be restricting or stopping circulation - refer to FAQ # 2.
5. Q: The light keeps going out.
A: The light is designed to operate for 10 seconds at a time to save battery life. Press the button for about one second again to turn the light on for another ten seconds. Note: Holding the button down for too long (two seconds or more) will turn the unit off.
6. Q: How do I change the battery?
A: Snap the battery door on the front of the PulseOx open with a flat screwdriver. Remove the old battery and discard in accordance with local environmental laws. Install a new battery by matching the +/- marks inside the battery compartment and replace battery door. CAUTION: installing an incorrect battery may damage the unit and void the warranty.
7. Q: Where can I get a new battery?
A: 3.6V ˝ AA batteries are available in many electronics stores, such as Radio Shack.
Replacement batteries may also be purchased direct from Pulmolink.
8. Q: What is the normal range for each display (SpO2 and pulse)?
A: Individual normal ranges should be defined by your physician.
9. Q: Can I put it on a wet (or bloody) finger?
A: No. This model is not water resistant, and exposure to excessive moisture will damage the PulseOx and void the warranty. Wipe all moisture from your finger before inserting into the flexible thimble. If finger is injured or bleeding, use a different finger.
10. Q: It dropped in water...
A: Turn off PulseOx immediately and remove the battery. Most likely, the PulseOx is damaged and beyond repair. However, you may try to dry out the PulseOx by shaking out any water and leaving the PulseOx open without the battery for several days. If your PulseOx does not function after several days of drying time, discard the PulseOx at your local electronics recycling centre.
11. Q: The PulseOx was laid on a table for 5 minutes and it never turned off automatically.
A: If the sensor gets ordinary room light, it will still periodically try to get a new reading. In order to use the "auto off" feature, it is recommended you store the PulseOx in a dark environment (like a drawer or the SPO belt pouch).
