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Understanding the Importance of Pulse Ox Screenings

Health
Posted at 8:33 AM, Nov 30, 2015
and last updated 2017-05-30 10:17:26-04

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WTXL) -- Critical congenital heart defects affect around 18 out of every 10,000 newborns.

The pulse ox test lets doctors and parents know when and if something is wrong.

The simple test, done before an infant leaves the hospital, can quickly determine if a baby is having issues or needs to see a specialist.

Shelly Wonsch with the Capital Region Medical Center says the process is very easy and painless. Doctors or nurses place monitors are around the child's wrist and ankles to get the reading. If the newborn gets three failed screenings they're referred to a specialist.

For more information on pulse ox testing, click here.