Intermediate
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
pulse oximetry screening
Pronunciation: /pʌls ɒkˈsɪmɪtri/
Non-invasive test measuring blood oxygen saturation to detect critical congenital heart disease.
Full Definition
Pulse oximetry screening is a painless, non-invasive test that measures the oxygen saturation in an infant's blood using light sensors placed on the skin. In newborn screening, this test is performed on both the right hand and either foot to detect critical congenital heart disease. The screening uses specific oxygen saturation thresholds and protocols to identify infants who may have life-threatening heart defects that require immediate evaluation.
Usage
Usage note: Do not hyphenate 'pulse oximetry' when used as a compound modifier.
In Context
- "Pulse oximetry screening detected oxygen saturation of 92% prompting immediate echocardiography." — clinical case
- "The hospital implemented pulse oximetry screening for all newborns before discharge." — policy implementation
Also known as
CCHD screening
oxygen saturation screening
Don't confuse with
pulse monitoring
cardiac monitoring