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False-negative pulse oximetry screening for critical congenital heart disease: the case for parent education
Brandon W Harden1, Gerard R Martin, Elizabeth A Bradshaw
1Department of Cardiology, Children's National Medical Center, 111 Michigan Ave, N.W., Washington, DC, 20010-2970, USA, bharden@childrensnational.org.
Insights
Newborn screening for critical congenital heart disease (CCHD) using pulse oximetry may miss cases. This case highlights the limitations of CCHD screening, emphasizing the need for awareness among healthcare providers and families.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Neonatology
- Cardiology
Background:
- The American Academy of Pediatrics has released guidelines for pulse oximetry screening for critical congenital heart disease (CCHD).
- CCHD screening aims to improve early detection, reducing associated morbidity and mortality.
- Routine newborn screening protocols are standard practice.
Abstract:
The American Academy of Pediatrics recently published evidence-based guidelines for a standardized approach to pulse oximetry as a screening tool for critical congenital heart disease (CCHD). The addition of CCHD screening to the standard newborn examination may lead to earlier detection of CCHD and subsequently decreased morbidity and mortality. We report a case of CCHD with excessive pulmonary blood flow that went undetected during routine newborn screening. Healthcare practitioners and families need to be aware of the limitations of CCHD screening.
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