Knowing if the oximeter displays a normal oxygen level and pulse rate may be easy as you have to remember the normal readings. However, the challenge may come when an oximeter displays results outside the typical rates, as it may indicate a health problem and a possible administration of first aid. Fortunately, information regarding these first aid practices is available from reliable resources online, and the skills in doing them may be acquired by enrolling in a first aid course. Find out below about these next steps, so you are prepared no matter what an oximeter reading displays.
The Normal Oxygen Level and Pulse Rate
According to Healthdirect, your oxygen level should be 95% or higher, and an adult’s standard resting heart rate may range between 60 and 100 beats a minute.
Healthdirect is connected to Australia’s health system and industry in providing health information, advice, and referral to the public.
Meaning of Oxygen Level Below 95%
The same Healthdirect link states that an oxygen level of:
- 93-94% may mean you have moderate COVID-19 symptoms.
- 92% or less means you may have severe COVID-19 symptoms.
According to Healthline, there is also a possibility of Hypoxemia if the oxygen level is below normal, which also states it is a cause for concern. Healthline is a health information site managed by an extensive medical network of over 150 healthcare professionals.
First Aid
Healthline advises contacting your general practitioner (GP) for a review as soon as possible if an oximeter reads your oxygen level of 93%-94%. At the same time, they suggest calling 000 if the reading is below that.
On the other hand, first aid for Hypoxemia is an inhaler or asthma medicine by mouth, according to WebMD, which works closely with over 100 doctors and health experts. Further hospital treatment is also advised, where the oxygen levels may be monitored.
Prevention
Aside from the Covid-19 vaccination, the Australian Government’s Department of Health and Aged Care suggests doing the following to prevent the transmission of Covid-19:
- Good hygiene.
- Wearing face masks.
- Physical distancing.
This department works with various stakeholders in developing and delivering policies and programs and advises the Australian Government on health, aged care, and sport.
Meanwhile, managing your asthma through an asthma treatment plan is a way to prevent hypoxia, as stated by WebMD.
Managing Asthma
You may do the following suggestions in learning how to manage asthma:
- Gather information from the Australian Asthma Handbook, Australia’s national asthma management guidelines. This handbook is published by the National Asthma Council Australia, Australia’s lead authority on asthma.
- Enrol in the 22556VIC – Course in the Management of Asthma Risks and Emergencies in the Workplace that allows its successful students to develop an asthma strategy and provide asthma-related first aid interventions.
The handbook is available on the National Asthma Council Australia’s website, while the asthma first aid course is delivered by Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) like CPR First Aid (RTO NO 21903). RTOs are described to have the approved scope of delivering Nationally Recognised Training for different skills and knowledge, such as managing asthma, according to training.gov.au, the National Register on Vocational Education and Training (VET) in Australia.
About CPR First Aid (RTO NO 21903)
This accredited first aid course provider has been delivering first aid courses like the 22556VIC – Course in the Management of Asthma Risks and Emergencies in the Workplace since 2007 and is registered under the national regulator for vocational education and training, The Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA).
The Duration of the First Aid Course for Asthma
The current 22556VIC – This first aid trainer delivers a course in the Management of Asthma Risks and Emergencies in the Workplace along with the 22578VIC Course in First Aid Management of Anaphylaxis for a total of 3 hours.
The Cost of the First Aid Course for Asthma
The Combined Asthma and Anaphylaxis first aid course starts at $80 if you book online.
The Location of the First Aid Course for Asthma.
The practical classes of the first aid courses are held in the Perth training location found at 123C Colin St. West Perth 6005 or in an organisation’s Workplace for customised training through a private booking.
Meaning of Pulse Rate Outside the Normal Range
Below are the indications of when an oximeter reads a pulse rate that is outside the normal range of 60-100 beats a minute
Meaning of Pulse Rate Below 60
The same Healthdirect link states that a pulse rate below 60 may mean your heart is working more efficiently and is more fit. However, a slow pulse could also be a sign of problems.
Meaning of Pulse Rate Above 100
It may also be a sign of a problem if an oximeter reads a pulse rate above 100, according to Healthdirect.
First Aid
Healthdirect recommends contacting your doctor or general practice for a review if your heart rate is low or high.
Prevention
Websites like Cleveland Clinic provide tips on stabilizing your resting heart rate. Cleveland Clinic was founded in 1921 and has since introduced many medical firsts, opened facilities around the world, and is proud to be ranked among the top hospitals in the USA.
Conclusion
Knowing if the oximeter displays a normal oxygen level and pulse rate may be easy as you have to remember the normal readings. The normal oxygen level is 95% or higher, and the healthy pulse rate is between 60 and 100 beats a minute. If an oximeter displays readings outside these ranges, it may indicate a health problem like Hypoxemia and Covid-19. These health conditions and other possible risks that an oximeter may detect are treatable with proper first aid and further treatment in a hospital. There are also plans and tips you may follow to prevent having them.
