Oximeters and Skin Pigment: Impact of Skin Pigmentation on Accuracy of Pulse Oximetry

Finger pulse oximetry SpO2 is widely used to estimate arterial oxygen saturation SaO2. Current Spo2 targets do not take into consideration the many variables that affect that correlation in particular skin pigmentation.This study aims to evaluate different FDA approved pulse oximeters (Nonin co-pilot, massimo Radical 7, Philips-standard of care monitor, innovo premium iP900BP, nellcor PM1000N, Nano100) with SaO2 reference values obtained by an arterial blood gas in subjects with different skin pigments measured by a skin color scale as well as self-identification of race.

Inclusion Criteria:≥ 18 years oldPatients admitted to the Intensive Care UnitPatient has arterial lineExclusion Criteria:No signal with the oximeterMissing digits preventing application of all probes simultaneouslyNo requirement for arterial blood gasesPigmented nails, fake nails, or nail polishMethemoglobinemiaPatient in isolation (multi-resistant bacteria, C-Difficile, COVID-19)