Pulse oximetry to screen for critical congenital cardiopathy in neonates: current practices in Flanders

Abstract

Based on a survey on current practices using systematic pulse oximetry to screen for critical congenital cardiopathy in the 59 maternities in Flanders and a response rate of 91 % (54/59), we conclude that at least 48 units already have implemented systematic pulse oximetry screening. Before the Vlaamse Vereniging voor Kindergeneeskunde guideline (≤2015), there were 2 maternity wards that already conducted pulse oximetry, with a steady annual increase (+4, +8, +13, +8, +11, +1) until 2021. Commonly reported barriers were limited resources (time, staff, equipment), the need of training initiatives, the presence of false-positives, the absence of echocardiographic expertise, or interference with earlier discharge.