Title: Pulse Oximetry Screening for Babies
Headings: Pulse Oximetry Screening for Babies
Pulse Oximetry Screening for Babies
How Is a Pulse Oximetry Test Performed?
Is Pulse Oximetry Testing Safe?
Why Is Pulse Oximetry Testing Important?

Content: There is no radiation involved with this test as well. It simply temporarily shines a light through the skin to test how much of the blood contains oxygen. Why Is Pulse Oximetry Testing Important? Some congenital heart defects do not show signs within the first days or even weeks of life. Sometimes babies with significant congenital heart disease may not have a murmur after birth. Therefore, some babies may not show signs of significant congenital heart disease until after they become very sick. If healthcare providers discover a heart problem before a baby becomes ill, then the baby will have a better chance to do well with any necessary surgeries or procedures. Early diagnosis of the heart problem may also prevent damage to other organs that may occur when a baby becomes sick due to congenital heart disease. While pulse oximetry screening cannot rule out all forms of congenital heart disease, it is a good starting point for evaluating many serious types of congenital heart defects. In 2011, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recommended the pulse oximetry screening should be included in the routine evaluation that all newborn babies undergo before they are discharged from the hospital after birth.