Overnight Pulse Oximetry
An overnight pulse oximetry test is a non-invasive, less expensive alternative to a complete overnight sleep study.
The patient is fitted with a small wrist oximeter that is to be worn at night (at least four hours for best results). It tests the patient’s oxygen level and heart rate.
This test is typically performed on patients experiencing:
- Poor sleeping patterns
- Suspected sleep apnea
The overnight pulse oximetry test also measures the adequacy of a patient’s current oxygen, and it may be performed to assess a patient’s baseline breathing prior to further testing and to qualify patients for home oxygen. It can also be used as part of bi-level positive airway pressure (BiPAP) therapy and continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy.