Comparison of Pulse Oximetry and Capnography Monitoring with Arterial Blood Gases Parameters among Postoperative Pediatric Cardiac Surgeries at a University Hospital

Background: Pediatric patients undergone mechanical ventilation after cardiac surgeries need rapid and reliable evaluation of their respiratory status. Monitoring of pulse oximetery and capnography as a surrogate, noninvasive measurement of arterial oxygen saturation (Sao₂) and arterial carbon dioxide tension (PaCo₂) became important respiratory monitoring.

The aim of the study: Was to compare pulse oximetery and capnography monitoring values with arterial blood gas parameters among postoperative pediatric cardiac surgeries.

Subjects and Methods: A descriptive correlational design was adopted utilizing a convenience sample of 88 pediatric patients with cardiac anomalies who undergoing total repair surgeries, intubated for mechanical ventilation and had an indwelling arterial catheter as part of their evaluation in postoperative period were included in the study. Patient’s demographic, clinical relevant data as well as invasive and noninvasive monitoring of arterial oxygen saturation and arterial carbon dioxide partial pressure were utilized in data collection

Results: Statistical analysis demonstrated mean differences between Sao₂ and Spo₂ (98.2 ±1.6% and 97.5±2.4% respectively; p=0.024)) as well as the mean difference between PaCo₂ and PetCo₂ (36.9±6.9mmHg and 33.1±7.7mmHg respectively; p <0.001). As well, a significant positive correlation was found between the mean Sao₂ and Spo₂ (r= 0.935, p<0.001) as well as, between the mean PaCo₂ and PetCo₂ (r= 0.930, p<0.001).

Conclusion It can be concluded that Spo₂ and EtCo₂ values are positively correlated with Sao₂ and PaCo₂ in mechanically ventilated pediatric patients after cardiac surgeries. Therefore Spo₂ and EtCo₂ monitoring can be used as a continuous, non-invasive predictor for Sao₂ and PaCo₂.

Keywords: Pulse oximetry; Capnography; Arterial blood gases; Congenital heart defects