Evaluating Pulse-Oximetry Accuracy with Skin Protection
Author Information
Author(s): James Jyotsna, Tiwari Lokesh, Upadhyay Pramod, Sreenivas Vishnubhatla, Bhambhani Vikas, Puliyel Jacob M
Primary Institution: St Stephen's Hospital Tis Hazari, Delhi, India
Hypothesis
Does using a protective covering affect the accuracy of pulse-oximetry readings in neonates?
Conclusion
Using Micropore or gauze does not significantly affect the accuracy of pulse-oximetry readings in neonates.
Supporting Evidence
- The mean difference in readings with Micropore was 0.06 and with gauze was 0.04 compared to the standard method.
- Bland-Altman plots indicated no significant loss of accuracy with protective coverings.
- The differences observed were less than the variability seen in repeatability testing of the standard method.
Takeaway
This study shows that putting tape or gauze on a baby's skin before taking oxygen readings doesn't change the results much.
Methodology
Fifty full-term neonates had pulse-oximetry readings taken directly and through protective coverings, with comparisons made using Bland-Altman plots.
Limitations
The study did not use blood gas readings as a gold standard for comparison.
Participant Demographics
All participants were full-term neonates less than a week old.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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