Pulse oximetry in pediatric care: Balancing advantages and limitations

Normative pulse oximetry values in healthy children: A cross-sectional study from Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

OBJECTIVES

To establish reference values for peripheral oxygen saturation levels in children using pulse oximetry. Pulse oximetry to assess peripheral oxygen saturation is widely used in pediatric care as part of vital signs monitoring. Although readings between 95% and 100% are often considered normal in clinical practice, recent studies suggest that the normal peripheral oxygen saturation range should be between 97% and 100%.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study included children aged ≤18 years attending pediatric clinics and not having respiratory distress or acute illness during their visit. Vital signs and anthropometric measurements were recorded. Oxygen saturation and pulse rate were measured using the Masimo Radical-7 pulse oximeter with age-appropriate saturation probes.

RESULTS

A total of 973 participants were enrolled in the study. The median oxygen saturation was 99%. Most participants (75.9%) exhibited oxygen saturation levels between 99% and 100%, while 24.1% had values between 97% and 98%. Importantly, no participant had an oxygen saturation below 97%. Additionally, statistical analysis showed no significant differences in oxygen saturation across age groups or genders.

CONCLUSION

The findings highlight the importance of vigilant monitoring in pediatric care, particularly when peripheral oxygen saturation values measured by pulse oximetry fall below 97%. Such readings, especially when consistently observed, should not be dismissed, as they may indicate potential underlying health issues or impending emergencies that warrant further evaluation and intervention.