Accuracy of Pulse Oximetry Measurement of Heart Rate of Newborn Infants in the Delivery Room

Abstract

Objective: To determine the accuracy of heart rate obtained by pulse oximetry (HRPO) relative to HR obtained by 3-lead electrocardiography (HRECG) in newborn infants in the delivery room. Study design: Immediately after birth, a preductal PO sensor and ECG leads were applied. PO and ECG monitor displays were recorded by a video camera. Two investigators reviewed the videos. Every two seconds, 1 of the investigators recorded HRPO and indicators of signal quality from the oximeter while masked to ECG, whereas the other recorded HRECG and ECG signal quality while masked to PO. HRPO and HRECG measurements were compared using Bland-Altman analysis. Results: We attended 92 deliveries; 37 infants w..