Pulse oximetry and racial bias: Recommendations for national healthcare, regulatory and research bodies (March 2021)

Summary

This report from the NHS Race and Health Observatory, acknowledges the growing evidence suggesting there may be drawbacks when using pulse oximetry on darker skin. 

Whilst the picture on racial bias in pulse oximetry is still mixed, as a worst-case scenario, the application of this intervention can potentially have negative outcomes for patients with more pigmentation in their skin. To help counter potential health inequalities in this area, the report outlines a number of recommendations for healthcare, regulatory and research bodies.

Content

• Recommendation 1: There should be an urgent review of pulse oximetry medical products used in the United Kingdom
• Recommendation 2: Identification of suitable parameters to identify hypoxia need to be verified
• Recommendation 3: Review of all medical equipment and devices
• Recommendation 4: Further research

To read the full report and detailed recommendations, follow the link below.