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: The pulse oximeter has a lighted probe that is temporarily attached to the baby’s finger, ear lobe, or foot. Once the baby’s finger is attached to the probe (usually by a sticker), the red light of the probe reads the amount of oxygen carried by the blood. The oxygen level is tested in both arms and both feet. In some kinds of congenital heart disease, the numbers can be different in the arms compared to the legs. It also helps to validate the test to do it in all of the extremities. The time required to complete this test is approximately 1 to 5 minutes. Is Pulse Oximetry Testing Safe? Yes. There are no known risks associated with pulse oximetry testing. This is not a blood test so it does not require a needle stick.