Putting pulse oximeters in hotels for COVID-19 patients

July 28 , 2020

Pulse oximeter unit Pulse oximeter unit

One of the perils for people infected by COVID-19 virus, even those who show only mild symptoms, is that their health can deteriorate significantly in a very short time. Since survival is often determined by how quickly a patient can be treated following such drastic turn, pulse oximeters—a device to measure the level of oxygen saturation in the bloodstream—are literally lifesavers.

Komeito was the first to call for placing these devices at hotels and similar facilities that accept COVID-19 patients self-quarantining in their rooms. The idea came from one young physician, who suggested to Komeito House of Councilors member Nobuhiro Miura that pulse oximeters be routinely installed in such hotel rooms. Since it provides real-time monitoring, when a patient’s oxygen level shows a serious decline, he or she can quickly be transported to the nearest hospital for treatment.

Miura promptly consulted with fellow party member Kozo Akino, a licensed physician, and they brought the matter up with Hisashi Inatsu, another member of Komeito who is currently serving as vice minister of the Health, Labor and Welfare ministry. Four days later, the ministry incorporated the suggestion in its official protocol regarding patients with mild COVID-19 symptoms. Plans are underway to provide the devices to people self-quarantining at home as well.