Newborn pulse oximetry screening

Pulse oximetry (or pulse ox) is one of the routine screening tests that your baby may get. It measures oxygen levels in the blood with a small device wrapped around the hand and foot. It's done to check for serious heart problems (congenital heart disease). Experts recommend it for most babies.

The pulse oximetry screening test checks for heart problems that lower the oxygen levels in your baby's blood. If a baby is born with a heart problem, it's best if doctors know about it right away. That's why most babies get this test soon after birth.

A small, soft sensor will be wrapped around your baby's hand and foot. It's connected to a machine. The machine reads oxygen levels in the blood. Nursery staff will do the test and record the results. You can stay with your baby. If you have questions, ask the staff or doctor.

In general, there's nothing you have to do before this test, unless your doctor tells you to.