Pulse oximetry and cyanotic CHD

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Does anyone know if there have been studies regarding the accuracy of pulse oximetry in the polycythemic cyanotic CHD patient?

I had a patient in which the pulse ox readings varied from high 50s to low 70s in just a few minutes without clinical changes. The waveform looked good the entire time. I got to the point that I did not know when to believe the machine. I changed out probes, machines, and what extremity was used. Nothing seemed to make a difference.

rnsusan

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Specializes in NICU, PICU, PCVICU and peds oncology.

I'm pretty sure I read one somewhere. I'll have a look and see whether I can find it... Watch this space.

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