The Impact of Skin Tone on Pulse Oximeter Accuracy (NCT07415187)
🩺 Plain-English Summary (8th-Grade Level)
Pulse oximeters are widely used in hospitals to estimate blood oxygen levels using a sensor placed on the skin. Recent studies suggest that pulse oximeter readings may be less accurate in individuals with darker skin tones, which could delay recognition of low oxygen levels. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the accuracy of pulse oximeters across a range of skin tones and to identify factors associated with differences between pulse oximeter readings and oxygen levels measured directly from blood. This is an observational cohort study involving adult patients who are already undergoing an arterial blood gas (ABG) test as part of routine clinical care. The ABG test is not performed for research purposes and is not altered by participation in the study. At the time the ABG sample is obtained, two commercially available pulse oximeters will be temporarily placed on the participant's finger to record oxygen saturation values. These readings will be compared with the oxygen saturation measured from the arterial blood sample. Pulse oximeter measurements collected for the study will not be used for clinical decision-making. Skin tone will be assessed using both self-reported race/ethnicity and an objective, noninvasive skin pigmentation measurement device. This approach allows evaluation of the relationship between skin pigmentation and pulse oximeter accuracy. Participation in the study involves minimal risk. No additional blood samples, medications, or treatments are required. The study does not alter standard medical care. The findings from this study may improve understanding of pulse oximeter performance and help inform future efforts to reduce measurement bias and improve patient safety.
Who can join: Review the eligibility criteria below.
Location: Rush University Medical Center — Chicago, Illinois
Age range: 18 Years
🧪 Interventions in This Study
- There is no intervention (OTHER)
📋 "Do I Qualify?" — 1-Minute Self Screener
Instant ChecklistFull eligibility criteria are available on the official NIH protocol. View the criteria ↗
📍 All Participating Trial Locations (1 Sites)
- Rush University Medical Center — Chicago, Illinois
📞 Contact the Study Coordinator
Phone: (312) 942-6389
Email: jonathan_b_scott@rush.edu
Coordinator details come directly from the registered NIH protocol. Confirm the study is still recruiting before traveling.
💰 Cost, Insurance & Patient Rights
- 100% Free Items: The investigational treatment and protocol-required procedures are supplied at zero cost by the sponsor.
- Routine Patient Care: Under federal law (ACA § 2709) and many state statutes, routine care costs are covered during participation.
- Voluntary Participation: You may withdraw at any time without affecting your standard medical care.
Explore by condition: All Accuracy of Pulse Oximetry Across Skin Pigmentation Levels clinical trials
💡 How to Participate
- Check the checklist above to see if you may qualify.
- Contact the study coordinator using the phone/email above.
- Ask about the visit schedule, what is covered at no cost, and any travel support.
- Confirm with your own doctor before making a decision.