Pulse Oximeters Are Fooled by Darker Skin Tones
A new study found that the pulse oximeter, a device routinely used to detect oxygen levels in the blood, may give misleading results for some Black patients and other people of color with dark skin pigment. https://t.co/UzVx19nI1O
— NYT Science (@NYTScience) December 22, 2020
Health Editor’s Note: Shocking news, but maybe the reason why there is a disproportionate number of black patients, Hispanics, and Native Americans who succumb to COVID-19.
The medical community relies on the simple, commonly used, noninvasive pulse oximeter to determine the level of oxygen in the blood, especially during this pandemic (COVID-19 pneumonia) when low blood oxygen levels will determine if someone needs to be admitted to the hospital for supplemental oxygen or more invasive procedures such as to be ventilated.
In black patients, these devices give inaccurate results in one out of 10 people. How does a pulse oximeter work? It detects the color of blood, bright red meaning oxygenated and purplish meaning deoxygenated, and then analyzing the absorption of the light to determine the oxygen level. Now researchers suspect that the inaccurate readings may be a reflection of the light being absorbed by darker skin pigments. These darker skin pigments scatter the light and thus there may be an inaccurate oxygen level reading.
When the level of blood oxygen is inaccurate there will be inadequate treatments. Hypoxia is missed so no treatment is given. Big problem! While this issue is being researched and has been identified, I recommend people of color bring this issue up with their healthcare provider, especially if they are having any trouble breathing…..Carol
Carol graduated from Riverside White Cross School of Nursing in Columbus, Ohio and received her diploma as a registered nurse. She attended Bowling Green State University where she received a Bachelor of Arts Degree in History and Literature. She attended the University of Toledo, College of Nursing, and received a Master’s of Nursing Science Degree as an Educator.
She has traveled extensively, is a photographer, and writes on medical issues. Carol has three children RJ, Katherine, and Stephen – one daughter-in-law; Katie – two granddaughters; Isabella Marianna and Zoe Olivia – and one grandson, Alexander Paul. She also shares her life with her husband Gordon Duff, many cats, and two rescues.
ATTENTION READERS
We See The World From All Sides and Want YOU To Be Fully InformedIn fact, intentional disinformation is a disgraceful scourge in media today. So to assuage any possible errant incorrect information posted herein, we strongly encourage you to seek corroboration from other non-VT sources before forming an educated opinion.
About VT - Policies & Disclosures - Comment Policy
