Continuous Pulse Oximetry Monitoring Is Overused in Bronchiolitis Care

Viral bronchiolitis is the most common reason for hospitalization in children younger than 2 years. Supportive care often includes supplemental oxygen, for which continuous pulse oximetry (SpO₂₎ monitoring is indicated. However, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends against the use of continuous pulse oximetry in patients not receiving supplemental oxygen. An example of medical overuse, continuous pulse oximetry leads to increased hospital stay, risk for hospital-associated harm, and costs.

To study inappropriate use of continuous pulse oximetry monitoring, researchers at 49 hospitals in the U.S. and Canada observed a convenience sample of 3612 otherwise healthy children ages 8 weeks to 23 months who had acute bronchiolitis and were …