Awareness of Racial Bias in Pulse Oximetry among Practicing Neonatologists: A Cross-Sectional Survey.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

Pulse oximeters may systematically overestimate arterial oxygen saturation in neonates with darker skin pigmentation. We performed a survey in practicing neonatologists to explore knowledge of this bias and the implications for clinical care.

Methods

An email survey was distributed assessing knowledge of melanin-related pulse oximeter bias, perceived clinical significance, and communication practices. Responses were compared to data from emergency medicine (EM) clinicians.

Results

Survey results from 120 neonatologists showed that 45.0% agreed that bias exists in pulse oximetry based on skin pigmentation. Among respondents aware of the bias, less than half correctly identified its direction. Most clinicians reported no change in clinical management for da

SUBMITTER: Maher PJ 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12707788 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature