How Is Blood Oxygen Measured?

There are primarily two ways your blood oxygen percentage is measured.

Fingertip Pulse Oximetry: A fingertip pulse oximetry reader is an home medical equipment for common use that clips painlessly to your fingertip. It can measure the oxygen levels of your blood through the thin skin of your fingertip. Reasonably accurate. It is also a healthy companion for the family, but is also often used in hospital settings.

ABG Test: An ABG (Arterial Blood Gas) test starts with a sample of blood drawn directly from an artery within a healthcare setting. With a blood sample, doctors and nurses can directly determine how much oxygen is in your blood. These tests are highly accurate, but must be performed by a medical professional.