Oximeters: simplified

During COVID times, everyone’s heard of the pulse oximeter: the small device you clip onto your finger to find out your oxygen saturation levels (SpO2).

An oximeter can help detect or monitor breathing issues associated with COVID-19 or COVID-19 pneumonia. Especially if you’re diagnosed with COVID-19 and experiencing shortness of breath, oxygen saturation levels can indicate whether you need to seek medical help.

But how does this device work? What's the science behind it?