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In 2011, the AAP endorsed universal pulse oximetry screening for newborn critical congenital heart disease (CCHD) before discharge from the newborn nursery (Pediatrics 2012; 129:190). New outcomes data support benefits of CCHD screening, including fewer infant deaths, fewer emergency hospitalizations, and less use of neonatal echocardiography. In a new clinical report, the AAP provides updates that might improve screening accuracy.
Screening should be performed only on newborns who are not receiving any respiratory support (e.g., supplemental oxygen); this includes babies in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). Babies on respiratory support might have no…