How to use saturation monitoring in newborns

Arch Dis Child Educ Pract Ed. 2019 Feb;104(1):35-42. doi: 10.1136/archdischild-2017-313499. Epub 2018 May 10.

Abstract

Pulse oximetry is a first-line monitoring tool, used in neonatal medicine routinely as a part of continuous monitoring during intensive care. It is also used to guide response to resuscitation and as a screening tool for congenital heart disease. Despite its widespread use, many healthcare providers are unaware of the underlying principles and limitations of pulse oximetry in neonates. In this article, we will discuss the physiological and technological principles behind the use of saturation monitoring and its use in neonatal practice.

Keywords: intensive care; monitoring; neonatology.

MeSH terms

  • Female
  • Heart Defects, Congenital / diagnosis*
  • Humans
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Male
  • Neonatal Screening / methods*
  • Neonatal Screening / standards*
  • Oximetry / methods*
  • Oximetry / standards*
  • Oxygen Consumption*
  • Practice Guidelines as Topic*