Pulse Oximetry
Accurate pulse oximetry ‘challenging’ in critically ill patients; skin pigmentation a factor
CHICAGO — In a new study, pulse oximeters underestimated arterial oxygen saturation among patients in the ICU, and the ability of the devices to detect hypoxemia was especially hindered in patients with dark skin pigmentation.
FDA releases draft guidance on pulse oximeter study recommendations
The FDA announced its draft guidance on recommendations for studies assessing pulse oximeters to ensure the devices perform similarly in individuals with different skin pigments, according to a press release.
Diversity in pulse oximeter clearance summaries increases after 2013 FDA guidance
Following the FDA’s release of a guidance requesting more diversity in pulse oximeter testing, the number of clearance summary documents discussing race and ethnicity/skin tone rose, according to a research letter published in JAMA.
Pulse oximeters overestimate oxygen saturation in darker skin pigments
Among individuals with darker skin tones, pulse oximeters often overestimated their oxygen saturation levels, according to a systematic review published in British Journal of Anaesthesia.
FDA panel: Proposed changes to pulse oximeter premarket studies generally well received
At a Medical Devices Advisory Committee meeting held Feb. 2, proposed changes to premarket studies assessing pulse oximeter performance were generally well received by the panelists.
Pulse wave amplitude drops help find patients with OSA at risk for cardiovascular events
Having a low pulse wave amplitude drop index was linked to a heightened risk for cardiovascular events in patients with obstructive sleep apnea, according to results published in American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine.
Acetazolamide lowers prevalence of altitude-related adverse health effects in COPD
Acetazolamide taken during stays in high-altitude areas decreases the chances for altitude-related adverse health effects among patients with COPD, according to a European Respiratory Society International Congress presentation.
Inaccurate pulse oximetry readings delay COVID-19 therapy for Black patients
Pulse oximeters more frequently overestimated arterial oxygen saturation among Black patients hospitalized with COVID-19 compared with white patients, leading to delayed COVID-19 therapy, a recent study found.
FDA grants 510(k) clearance to pulse oximeter device for infants
The FDA has granted 510(k) clearance to a prescription pulse oximeter in the form of a sock for monitoring oxygen saturation levels of infants, according to a manufacturer-issued press release.
Pulse oximeters may misjudge sleep apnea severity in Black patients
WASHINGTON — Black patients had decreased desaturation sensitivity during sleep recorded by pulse oximeters, according to research presented at the American Thoracic Society International Conference.