The Laws on Sales of Pulse Oximeters

A pulse oximeter is a device that is placed on a patient's finger to identify the level of oxygen saturation in the blood. Using this device requires training; therefore, federal laws are in place to keep this item from being used by people who have not been approved.

Medical Professionals

• Pulse oximeters are used by health care professionals to identify the level of oxygen in a person's body. Medical professionals such as nurses, EMTs and doctors are legally allowed to purchase them after providing proof of medical professional status (license) to the company from which they are buying them.

Non-medical Professionals

• People who do not work in the medical field may be legally allowed to purchase a pulse oximeter if their health warrants the device. A person who has a medical diagnosis, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, may require monitoring of oxygen saturation levels for medical reasons. These individuals receive a prescription from their health care practitioners and present it to the supplier.

Federal Enforcement

• Federal agencies are strict in enforcing compliance with the law about pulse oximeter use. Heavy fines have been issued to companies who do not follow procedures for ensuring that only legally eligible individuals purchase these medical instruments.