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What is Pulse
Oximetry?
Pulse Oximetry (Pulse Ox) is a simple screening
test that measures how much oxygen is in a baby's blood. When performed
after the baby is 24 hours old (or before discharge), the test can help
identify babies who may have serious heart problems before they go
home.
Why is it
important?
Some babies born with a heart defect can appear
healthy at first and can be sent home with their families before their
heart defect is detected. It has been estimated that at least 280
infants with an unrecognized Critical Congenital Heart Defect are
discharged each year from newborn nurseries in the United States. These
babies are at significant risk for death or disability if their CCHD is
not diagnosed and treated soon after birth (Source:
National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities)
Is Pulse Ox
Screening mandatory in all states in the U.S.?
In September 2010, the U.S. Department of Health
and Human Services (HHS) Secretary�s Advisory Committee on Heritable
Disorders in Newborns and Children (SACHDNC) recommended that the HHS
Secretary add pulse oximetry screening for CCHDs to the
Recommended Uniform Screening Panel. Some states currently are
developing their own policies on pulse oximetry screening for CCHDs.
(Source:
National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities)
What can I do
to promote the use of Pulse Ox Screening in my State?
The status of mandatory Pulse Ox Screening for all
newborns
differs by state.
The following states have already passed legislation for Newborn
Screening for CCHD:
California If you would like to lend your energy and your voice to this life-saving effort, contact your state offices of March of Dimes and Advocacy Contacts at American Heart Association . You may also contact the Parent Advocates listed below:
Where can I
get more information?
Additional Resources: Return to Main CHD Awareness Week Page
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