What is a key benefit of using a pulse oximeter in patient care?

A pulse oximeter is primarily designed to measure the oxygen saturation level of a patient's blood non-invasively and in real-time. This function is crucial in many medical settings, as it enables healthcare professionals to quickly assess a patient’s respiratory status, which is vital in diagnosing and managing various conditions like lung diseases, heart conditions, or during anesthesia.

While it may be true that pulse oximeters can be relatively inexpensive and portable, these features are secondary benefits and do not represent the primary purpose of the device. Monitoring blood pressure and measuring heart rate are not functions performed by a pulse oximeter; instead, separate devices like sphygmomanometers and heart rate monitors serve those purposes. Therefore, the most significant advantage of using a pulse oximeter is its ability to provide accurate, real-time data on blood oxygen levels, allowing for prompt decision-making in patient care.