Oxygen saturation profile in healthy preterm infants

Aim To establish a reference range for oxygen saturation (SpO 2 ) in well preterm infants to guide home oxygen therapy using a pulse oximeter and Pulse Oximetry Data Analysis Software (PODS). Methods SpO 2 and heart-rate profiles of healthy preterm infants receiving mechanical ventilation for less than 6 h and supplemental oxygen for less than 48 h were monitored using a pulse oximeter. The stored data were downloaded from the monitor to a personal computer as individual files. Each infant9s files of SpO 2 were subsequently displayed in graphic form, and a reference range was constructed using dedicated software, PODS. Results 43 infants were studied. The median value of all infants mean SpO 2 values was 95% (range 92–99%). The median duration of saturations less than 85% and between 85% and 90 % were 1% and 2% respectively. Using the study group median, 5th and 95th percentiles, a cumulative frequency curve of time against SpO 2 value was constructed (representing the reference range of SpO 2 profiles in healthy preterm infants). Conclusion The SpO 2 reference range can be used as an easy and practical guide to compare SpO 2 profiles of infants on home oxygen therapy and guide their oxygen therapy.