Racial Discrepancies in Pulse Oximetry Reading and Their Effects on Self-monitoring Devices Usage and Clinical Decision-Making

Moultrie, GA

INTRODUCTION: As technology use rises and the use of pulse oximetry data increases, the demand for accurate oxygen saturation (SpO2) readings is paramount to ensure health equity among all populations. Pulse oximetry is a non-invasive tool used to monitor SpO2. Self-monitoring devices, such as SMART devices, allow for portable and cost-effective utilization; therefore, self-monitoring device usage and pulse oximetry data are quickly becoming more available to patients and their providers. Pulse oximetry is a critical component used when evaluating the severity of arterial deoxygenation. Providers often use data from pulse oximetry to determine treatment options. Recent studies have found discrepancies in pulse oximeter reading among Black patients, posing a problem for both patients and their providers. We hypothesize that self-monitoring devices can affect mortality rates among Black patients if these disparities are not addressed.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study is to investigate how racial discrepancies in pulse oximetry reading among self-monitoring devices can affect mortality rates among Black patients in the United States.

METHODS: The design of this study is a systematic review and data extraction of relevant articles that discuss the use of self-monitoring devices to determine oxygen saturation and relevant racial disparities associated with health outcomes.

RESULTS: Searches identified 123 citations with relative pulse oximetry data in relation to race. Some of the data extraction provided significant evidence that there are disparities present among reading provided by self-monitoring, pulse oximetry devices and Black patients.

CONCLUSION This is a research proposal that is still ongoing. Current independent reviews of individual articles are still being analyzed.