Pulse Oximetry (Oxygen Saturation Measurement)

This test works by analyzing a small sample, such as blood, urine, or a swab, that is collected during your visit and sent to a certified laboratory, where specialized equipment and trained staff process it and generate results your healthcare provider can review with you.

A small sensor attached to your finger or ear lobe sends light through your blood vessels. Your body’s red blood cells absorb different amounts of light depending on whether they’re carrying oxygen. The sensor detects this difference and calculates your oxygen saturation level, usually reported as a percentage (e.g., 98%).

This test measures specific substances, cells, or markers in your body, such as blood cell counts, hormone or protein levels, or signs of infection, giving your healthcare team objective values they can compare against standard reference ranges.

Oxygen saturation (SpO₂) reflects the percentage of hemoglobin in your blood that is bound to oxygen. Normal values can vary slightly by age and health status, but generally range between 95% and 100% in healthy individuals. Lower values may indicate potential issues like poor circulation, breathing problems, or anemia.

This test is done to help your doctor check how well your body is functioning, look for early signs of disease, confirm or rule out a suspected condition, or monitor an illness or treatment you are already receiving so the right care decisions can be made.

Doctors may order pulse oximetry to monitor oxygen levels during procedures, check for breathing difficulties, assess sleep apnea, or evaluate symptoms like dizziness, fatigue, or shortness of breath. It’s also used in hospitals to track patients with respiratory conditions.

During the test, a trained member of our staff will explain each step before it happens. Depending on the type of test, you may have a small blood draw, provide a urine sample, or receive a quick scan, and most appointments take only a few minutes with little to no discomfort.

This test is quick and painless. You’ll place your finger or ear lobe in a small device that connects to a monitor. The sensor may briefly press against your skin, but it won’t draw blood. Results are usually available immediately.