Pulse oximeters may be less accurate on darker skin – study investigates

NCT ID NCT07415187

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study looks at whether pulse oximeters, which measure blood oxygen through the skin, are less accurate in people with darker skin. Researchers will compare readings from two common oximeters with oxygen levels measured directly from blood in 194 hospital patients. The goal is to understand if skin tone affects accuracy and to help make these devices safer for everyone.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

What this could lead to

If this study finds clear differences, it could lead to better pulse oximeters that work accurately for all skin tones, improving patient safety.

What could go wrong

This is an observational study, not a treatment trial. It only measures accuracy and won't directly fix any problems found. Results may not apply to all devices or settings.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Study contacts

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

Locations

  • Rush University Medical Center

    RECRUITING

    Chicago, Illinois, 60607, United States

    Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••