Management of oxygen saturation monitoring in preterm newborns in the NICU: the Italian picture

BACKGROUND: Although many studies emphasize the importance of using oxygen saturation (SpO(2)) targets in the NICUs, there is a wide variability in used saturation ranges among centers. Primary aim was to draw a representative picture on how the management of oxygen monitoring is performed in the Italian NICUs. Second aim was to identify healthcare-professionals related factors associated with oxygen targeting in the preterm population. METHODS: Cross-sectional study with data collection via an electronic survey form. A questionnaire containing pre-piloted and open questions on monitoring and management of the SpO(2) was administered to neonatologists across the network of the Italian Society of Neonatology. The questions focused on: the infrastructure, specific training, healthcare professionals and patients-related factors. The results of the survey were anonymously collected, summarized and analyzed. RESULTS: Out of 378 questionnaires, 93 were correctly filled. Thirty-six different SpO(2) ranges were observed. Centers using written standard operating procedures on oxygen management and SpO(2) monitoring maintained a correct average range of SpO(2) 90–95%, avoided hyperoxia and reconsidered saturation targets in relation to comorbidities. 39.8% of responders disabled alarms during neonatal care. One center used biomarkers for complete monitoring of neonatal oxygenation status. CONCLUSIONS: There is considerable variation in SpO(2) targets for preterm infants in the Italian NICUs. Standard operating procedures and specific training for health care personnel are the main factors playing a role for the correct maintenance of the recommended oxygen targets in preterms.