Oxygen saturation in healthy infants immediately after birth

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: Because the optimal concentration of oxygen (FiO2) required for stabilization of the newly born infant has not been established, the FiO2 is commonly adjusted according to the infant's oxygen saturation (SpO2). We aimed to determine the range of pre-ductal SpO2 in the first minutes of life in healthy newborn infants. STUDY DESIGN: We applied an oximetry sensor to the infant's right palm or wrist of term and preterm deliveries immediately after birth. Infants who received any resuscitation or supplemental oxygen were excluded. SpO2 was recorded at 60 second intervals for at least 5 minutes and until the SpO2 was >90%. RESULTS: A total of 205 deliveries were monitored; 30 infants we..