Study reveals pulse oximeters may be less accurate for darker skin in kids with heart defects

This study looks at whether pulse oximeters—the clips placed on fingers to measure oxygen levels—work equally well for children with different skin tones who have congenital heart disease. Researchers will enroll 92 children under 18 undergoing heart surgery and compare the oximeter readings to a more precise blood measurement. The goal is to understand if skin pigmentation affects accuracy, which could lead to better care for all patients.