Medlinket pulse oximeter: what to know

The device uses light through the finger to estimate how much oxygen is carried in the blood and displays a pulse reading. It does not diagnose the reason for breathlessness, chest discomfort or a change in oxygen level. Cold fingers, movement, nail products, poor positioning or a weak signal can make a reading unreliable. A single unexpected result should be checked again after resting with a warm, still hand.

Sit quietly, remove anything that blocks the sensor, place it on a suitable finger and keep your hand relaxed below heart level. Wait for the display to settle, then record the reading, pulse and symptoms. Follow the monitoring plan given by your clinician rather than changing oxygen or medicine based on the screen alone. Keep the device clean according to its instructions and do not share it without cleaning.

Get urgent medical help for severe breathlessness, blue or grey lips, confusion, fainting, new chest pain or inability to stay awake, regardless of the displayed number. Contact a clinician when readings remain unexpectedly low after a careful repeat check, or when breathing symptoms are worsening. People with chronic lung or heart disease should use the personal thresholds and action plan provided by their care team.

Ask how to position the device, what readings are expected for you, when to repeat a check, and exactly when to call the clinic or emergency services.