Guidelines for transcutaneous p O2 and p CO2 measurement

This document provides guidelines in the terminology, methodology, and in the interpretation of data obtained from the use of skin (transcutaneous) p O2 and p CO2 electrodes. The transcutaneous technique has found special application for newborn infants. The causes of analytical bias with respect to arterial blood gas values and imprecision obtained with transcutaneous p O2 and p CO2 electrodes are reviewed. Electrode temperatures above 44 degrees C should not be used routinely, and, at a measuring temperature of 44 degrees C, the measuring site should be changed at least every 4 h to avoid skin burning.