Related Experiment Video
Updated: Oct 23, 2025

How to Administer Near-Infrared Spectroscopy in Critically ill Neonates, Infants, and Children
Published on: August 19, 2020
Renal Oxygenation (rSO 2 ) Population Parameter Estimates in Premature Infants Routinely Monitored With Near-Infrared
Terri Marin1, Bryan L Williams, Asifhusen Mansuri
1Department of Physiological and Technological Nursing, College of Nursing, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia (Drs Marin and Williams); Department of Pediatric Nephrology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia (Dr Mansuri); Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia (Drs Mundy, Cockfield, Mann, and Stansfield); and Vascular Biology Center, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia (Dr Stansfield).
Background:
Currently, reference ranges for renal oxygenation measured by near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) in preterm infants beyond the first days of life are lacking, especially those born prior to 29 weeks' gestation. Population estimates of renal oxygenation (rSO 2 ) levels among preterm infants over time have yet to be established, leading to reluctance in clinical application.
Purpose:
To characterize the distribution and estimate population parameters for renal oxygenation measured by NIRS during the first 14 days of life among preterm infants.
Methods:
We prospectively observed rSO 2 trends of 37 infants before 34 weeks' gestation and 1800-g or less birth weight for the first 14 days of life. Analyses included distribution fit tests, ordinary least squares (OLS) regression, and t tests.
Results:
Average daily rSO 2 variation steadily increased with 42% difference through the first 14 days of life. For all infants, renal rSO 2 means peaked during the first 3 days of life and plateaued around 7 days. Daily rSO 2 slopes were significantly lower among males and infants 29 weeks' or less gestation.
Implications For Practice:
Renal rSO 2 during the first 14 days of life reflects normal extrauterine transition reaching stabilization around 7 days of life. Gestational age, birth weight, and gender may predict the early trajectory of rSO 2 patterns. Population estimates provide parameters for renal rSO 2 that may indicate early-onset tissue hypoxia when acute or significant drops from baseline occur.
Implications For Research:
We present a framework to guide future research using renal NIRS technology in preterm infants to determine deviations from expected trends that may precede renal injury.
Related Concept Videos
Special considerations while measuring oxygen saturation
Ensuring accuracy in vital sign recordings while prioritizing patient comfort and minimizing anxiety is...
Pulse Oximetry
Purpose
Average SpO2 values are greater than 95%. If the readings fall below 90%, it indicates that...
Guidelines For Measuring Vital Signs
Before taking a patient's vital signs, a nurse would consider and assess the patient's comfort level and ensure appropriate equipment is available.
Assessment of Diffusion and Perfusion
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...
Assessment of Ventilation I: Respiratory Rate
A Ventilation assessment is critical for monitoring a patient's health status. Respiration, one of the most accessible vital signs, provides insights into the function of numerous body systems and can indicate serious health issues, such as brainstem injuries from head trauma.
Critical Guidelines for Assessing Ventilation:

