Monitoring & Support

High-Resolution Overnight Pulse Oximetry

High-resolution overnight pulse oximetry utilizes a simple, small device, such as the Nonin WristOx2, Model 3150, to comfortably gather very detailed health information while you sleep.

1. What is it?

The Nonin 3150 is a specialized, wearable monitor designed to be portable and easy to use. It is worn on the wrist, similar to a digital watch. This system continuously measures and stores vital signs throughout the night in its internal memory. This detailed data collection is what makes the test "high-resolution," ensuring that doctors receive a complete and uninterrupted record of your body’s activity during sleep.

2. What does it test for?

The main purpose of this test is to monitor your body’s oxygen levels in your blood and your heart rate. This is used as an aid in the diagnosis of sleep-related breathing disorders. These issues, such as sleep apnea, cause repeated drops in blood oxygen levels during the night because breathing temporarily stops or becomes very shallow. Monitoring these drops helps doctors determine if the patient is suffering from a breathing problem while asleep and assess how serious the problem is.

3. How is the test conducted?

The test is straightforward and can be conducted in your own home or in a clinic. The healthcare professional handles the initial configuration and instructs the patient on how to attach and use the device.The small device is attached to your wrist using a band. A soft sensor or probe is then placed securely onto a finger (most commonly the index finger, though other fingers may be used, excluding the thumb). The monitor is powered by two small batteries. Once the finger is placed in the sensor, the monitor usually turns on automatically and begins continuous recording until the morning.

4. How will the data be useful to the doctor?

After the recording is complete, the extensive data stored inside the monitor is securely downloaded to a computer using specialized software. The doctor uses this software to analyze the continuous measurements of your oxygen and pulse trends. Because the recording is highly detailed, the physician gets a precise picture of your sleep period, identifying the frequency and depth of any oxygen dips throughout the night. This comprehensive analysis is crucial because it provides the necessary information for the doctor to confirm an accurate diagnosis, understand the severity of any breathing problems, and establish the best course of treatment.