How to use home devices (thermometer, pulse oximeter)

Audience: all

Home health devices like thermometers and pulse oximeters help you monitor your health safely at home. A thermometer measures your body temperature to check for fever, while a pulse oximeter measures oxygen levels in your blood and your pulse rate. Using these devices correctly can give you important information about your health and help you decide when to seek medical care. This guide explains how to use these devices step-by-step, what the readings mean, and when to contact a healthcare provider. Remember, these tools support your health monitoring but do not replace professional medical advice or diagnosis.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Body temperature above 39°C (102.2°F) with severe headache, stiff neck, or confusion — seek emergency care immediately.
• Oxygen saturation below 90% accompanied by shortness of breath, chest pain, or blue lips/fingertips — call emergency services.
• Persistent rapid pulse above 120 beats per minute or irregular heartbeat with dizziness or fainting — seek urgent medical evaluation.

What telemedicine can do

• Guidance on how to use home thermometers and pulse oximeters.
• Interpreting typical device readings and advising when to seek care.
• Answering questions about device maintenance and troubleshooting.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Diagnosing medical conditions based solely on device readings.
• Prescribing medications or treatments based on home device data.
• Managing emergencies or severe symptoms requiring in-person care.

Using a Thermometer Safely and Accurately

To measure your body temperature:

Normal body temperature is usually around 36.5°C to 37.5°C (97.7°F to 99.5°F), but it can vary. A temperature above 38°C (100.4°F) often indicates fever.

How to Use a Pulse Oximeter

A pulse oximeter clips onto your fingertip to measure oxygen saturation and pulse rate:

Normal SpO2 is typically 95% to 100%. Values below 90% may indicate low oxygen and require medical attention.

Interpreting Your Readings

Understand what your device readings mean:

Use readings as a guide but consider symptoms and overall health. If readings are abnormal or symptoms worsen, seek medical advice promptly.

Maintaining and Troubleshooting Your Devices

To keep your devices reliable:

Proper care ensures accurate monitoring for your health decisions.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Ensure your thermometer and pulse oximeter are clean and have working batteries.
• Know the model and type of your devices to describe them during the visit.
• Have a quiet, well-lit space to perform measurements during the tele-visit.
• Be ready to share your recent readings and any symptoms you are experiencing.
• Prepare a list of questions or concerns about using your home devices.

After your tele-visit

• Follow any instructions given by your healthcare provider based on your readings.
• Continue regular monitoring as advised and keep a log of your measurements.
• Seek in-person care if symptoms worsen or if you experience any red-flag signs.
• Maintain your devices according to manufacturer recommendations.
• Schedule follow-up telemedicine or in-person visits as recommended.

FAQs

How often should I check my temperature or oxygen levels at home?

You may check your temperature or oxygen levels as advised by your healthcare provider or when you feel unwell. For some conditions, monitoring several times a day is helpful, but routine checks without symptoms are usually unnecessary.

Can nail polish affect pulse oximeter readings?

Yes, dark nail polish or artificial nails can interfere with the sensor. It's best to remove nail polish or use a different finger without polish for more accurate readings.

What should I do if my thermometer or pulse oximeter gives inconsistent results?

Try retesting after a few minutes. Ensure the device is used correctly and batteries are charged. If inconsistencies persist, consider using a different device or consult a healthcare provider.

Is a fever always a sign of infection?

Not always. Fever can result from infections, inflammation, heat exposure, or other causes. It is a sign your body is responding to something and should be interpreted with other symptoms.

Can I rely on home devices instead of going to a doctor?

Home devices are helpful for monitoring but do not replace professional medical evaluation. If you have concerning symptoms or abnormal readings, seek medical advice promptly.

Sources

1. Thermometers — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Pulse Oximetry — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
3. How to Use a Pulse Oximeter — Mayo Clinic.
4. Fever in Adults — Merck Manuals Consumer Version.
5. Home Monitoring of Oxygen Saturation — National Library of Medicine.

This guide provides general information about using home health devices and is not a substitute for professional medical care. Telemedicine advice cannot replace in-person diagnosis or treatment. If you have severe symptoms or concerns, seek immediate medical attention.