Optimal oxygen saturations in preterm infants: a moving target

Related Experiment Video

Updated: May 14, 2026

How to Administer Near-Infrared Spectroscopy in Critically ill Neonates, Infants, and Children
07:27

How to Administer Near-Infrared Spectroscopy in Critically ill Neonates, Infants, and Children

Published on: August 19, 2020

Lisa M Askie1

  • 1NHMRC Clinical Trials Centre, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia. lisa.askie@ctc.usyd.edu.au

Current Opinion in Pediatrics
|February 13, 2013
PubMed

Insights

Current evidence suggests targeting lower oxygen saturation levels in preterm infants may increase early mortality. Until optimal ranges are defined, maintaining oxygen saturation above 90% is advisable for premature babies.

Area of Science:

  • Neonatal Medicine
  • Pediatric Pulmonology
  • Neonatal Intensive Care

Background:

  • Optimal oxygen saturation targets for preterm infants remain uncertain.
  • Existing evidence is limited, with few randomized trials.
  • Higher oxygen saturation may increase risks of retinopathy and pulmonary issues.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To address the ongoing uncertainty regarding optimal oxygen saturation targets in preterm infants.
  • To review current evidence and identify gaps in knowledge.
  • To inform clinical practice and future research directions.

Main Methods:

  • Systematic review of existing evidence.
  • Analysis of interim results from four independent randomized trials.
  • Establishment of a collaborative group investigating five randomized trials.

Main Results:

  • Higher oxygen saturation levels are associated with increased risk of severe retinopathy of prematurity and pulmonary morbidities.
  • Interim results from four trials indicate increased early mortality when targeting lower oxygen saturation ranges.
  • Data on long-term neurodevelopmental outcomes and effects of various target ranges are lacking.

Conclusions:

  • Defining and maintaining optimal oxygen saturation levels in preterm infants is a clinical challenge.
  • Ongoing collaborative research efforts are expected to provide further guidance.
  • Current evidence suggests avoiding oxygen saturation targets below 90%.
Abstract

More Related Videos

Non-Invasive Monitoring of Microvascular Oxygenation and Reactive Hyperemia using Hybrid, Near-Infrared Diffuse Optical Spectroscopy for Critical Care14:28

Non-Invasive Monitoring of Microvascular Oxygenation and Reactive Hyperemia using Hybrid, Near-Infrared Diffuse Optical Spectroscopy for Critical Care

Published on: May 10, 2024

The Perinatal Asphyxiated Lamb Model: A Model for Newborn Resuscitation09:03

The Perinatal Asphyxiated Lamb Model: A Model for Newborn Resuscitation

Published on: August 15, 2018

Related Concept Videos

Special considerations while measuring oxygen saturation01:19

Special considerations while measuring oxygen saturation

Assessing respiratory rate concurrently with pulse measurement is fundamental to patient care, providing valuable insights into the patient's respiratory function. The normal breathing rate for an adult usually falls within a normal range of 12 to 20 breaths per minute. Abnormal respiratory rates can signal underlying health conditions or the need for immediate intervention.
Ensuring accuracy in vital sign recordings while prioritizing patient comfort and minimizing anxiety is important. 
Assessment of Diffusion and Perfusion01:17

Assessment of Diffusion and Perfusion

Understanding and evaluating diffusion and perfusion is critical in assessing a patient's respiratory and circulatory health. These processes play key roles in maintaining the body's internal environment, ensuring that tissues receive adequate oxygen while waste products are efficiently removed.
The Role of Diffusion in Respiration
Diffusion is the process by which molecules move from an area of higher concentration to an area of lower concentration. In the respiratory system, this principle...
Oxygen Transport in the Blood01:27

Oxygen Transport in the Blood

Hemoglobin (Hb) is a crucial molecule in the human body, consisting of four polypeptide chains, each bound to an iron-containing heme group. This unique structure enables hemoglobin to bind to oxygen, with each molecule capable of combining with four molecules of oxygen, leading to rapid and reversible oxygen loading. When fully loaded with oxygen, it is called oxyhemoglobin, while hemoglobin that has released oxygen is called reduced hemoglobin or deoxyhemoglobin. As hemoglobin binds oxygen,...
Pulse Oximetry01:24

Pulse Oximetry

Pulse oximetry, or SpO2, is a non-invasive method for continuously monitoring arterial oxygen saturation (SaO2). This procedure involves attaching a probe or sensor to the patient's fingertip, forehead, earlobe, or nose bridge. The sensor works by detecting changes in oxygen saturation levels through light signals generated by the oximeter and reflected by the pulsing blood under the probe.
Purpose
Average SpO2 values are greater than 95%. If the readings fall below 90%, it indicates that...
Respiratory Assessment: Purpose and Indications01:19

Respiratory Assessment: Purpose and Indications

Respiratory assessment is a cornerstone of nursing assessments, crucial for the early detection of patient deterioration. This evaluation transcends routine procedures, representing a critical skill nurses must master to ensure optimal patient care.
Objectives and Importance:
The primary goal of respiratory assessment is to evaluate patients at early risk of clinical deterioration. Since respiratory distress often precedes other signs of declining health, breathing patterns and sounds become a...
Treatment for Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension: Oxygen Therapy for Respiratory Failure01:16

Treatment for Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension: Oxygen Therapy for Respiratory Failure

Oxygen therapy has emerged as a significant tool in enhancing the quality of life for patients suffering from pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). While this therapy has principally been studied on patients with significant hypoxemia, this therapeutic approach helps prevent potential organ damage and can be administered in the comfort of one's home.
Oxygen therapy is vital in increasing and maintaining blood oxygen levels in PAH patients. As a result, it aids in reducing fatigue, improving...