THE ELECTRODE COMPANY has specialised in pulse oximetry for over 25 years and developed some of the early patents in pulse oximetry. The company currently designs and manufactures pulse oximetry calibration technology for checking pulse oximeter sensor accuracy.
Recent research has shown that patient outcomes can be improved by checking pulse oximeter sensor accuracy. Contrary to the practice with most other medical devices, pulse oximeter accuracy and calibration is rarely checked. However, in the UK, surveys and audits of pulse oximeter sensors show that about one -in-three are not suitable for use. The international standard recognises that there is widespread confusion regarding methods of checking accuracy. Many users and engineers mistakenly believe that simulators and functional testers check accuracy – but they do not and cannot. The company specialises in hand held spectrometers, known as the Lightman range, which are capable of assessing the accuracy of pulse oximeter sensors.
