Are All Pulse Oximeters Challenged by Skin Pigmentation?

Pulse oximetry can detect low levels of oxygen in the blood, or hypoxemia, in patients with severe COVID-19. However, a recent study shows that readings may be inaccurate in patients with darker skin, further adding to racial discrepancies in COVID-19 outcomes. Fortunately, not all pulse oximeters have this problem. There are devices that took an equitable approach during development and show accuracy regardless of skin tone. In this episode, we talk to Masimo's Anand Sampath, Executive Vice President of Operations and Clinical Research, and Rick Gannotta, Chief Healthcare Administrative Officer, about racial bias in pulse oximetry.