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Pulse Oximetry and the Impact of Skin Pigmentation

Author(s): John Gallagher, DNP, RN, CCNS, CCRN-K, RRT

CERP A 0.60

Expires Sep 30, 2026

Topics: Hemodynamics

Population: Adult

Role: Staff

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Activity Summary

Oxygen saturation (SpO2) is one of the five vital signs that helps clinicians provide timely care, but the powerful pulse oximeters used to measure SpO2 can have blind spots that lead to inequitable care. For example, pulse oximeters, which work by shining light through a patient's tissue, are shown to be less accurate on average for patients with darker skin.

This presentation includes a summary of former FDA guidance. In January 2025, the FDA released Draft guidance for pulse oximeters, which will supersede the previous guidance once finalized.

Objectives

  • Summarize the fundamentals of pulse oximetry to understand how SpO2 readings are impacted by skin pigmentation.
  • Explain the patient-level and clinical factors associated with differences in pulse oximeter performance.
  • Incorporate guidance for optimizing the accuracy of pulse oximeters into clinical practice.

Continuing Education Disclosure Statement

Providing access to an educational activity does not imply endorsement by AACN of the content or any products mentioned.

Continuing Education Recognition Points (CERPs) are recognized by the AACN Certification Corporation to fulfill educational requirements for certification.

Some state boards of nursing and other certification organizations may recognize CERPs as meeting educational requirements. Nurses should consult with their state board or credentialing organization before submitting CERPs to fulfill educational requirements.