Aim: To establish a reference range for oxygen saturation (SpO(2)) in well preterm infants to guide home oxygen therapy using a pulse oximeter and Pulse Oximetry Data Analysis Software (PODS).
Methods: SpO(2) and heart-rate profiles of healthy preterm infants receiving mechanical ventilation for less than 6 h and supplemental oxygen for less than 48 h were monitored using a pulse oximeter. The stored data were downloaded from the monitor to a personal computer as individual files. Each infant's files of SpO(2) were subsequently displayed in graphic form, and a reference range was constructed using dedicated software, PODS.
Results: 43 infants were studied. The median value of all infants mean SpO(2) values was 95% (range 92-99%). The median duration of saturations less than 85% and between 85% and 90 % were 1% and 2% respectively. Using the study group median, 5th and 95th percentiles, a cumulative frequency curve of time against SpO(2) value was constructed (representing the reference range of SpO(2) profiles in healthy preterm infants).
Conclusion: The SpO(2) reference range can be used as an easy and practical guide to compare SpO(2) profiles of infants on home oxygen therapy and guide their oxygen therapy.