Cough Reflex Test (CRT) Practice

Pulse oximetry is the recommended method for continuously monitoring oxygenation in a neonate requiring intubation. This non-invasive technique measures the oxygen saturation level in the blood, providing real-time data on how well oxygen is being transported throughout the body.

In neonates, maintaining adequate oxygenation is critical because their respiratory systems and overall health can be extremely fragile. Pulse oximetry allows for continuous monitoring, which is essential during the intubation process and post-intubation management, enabling healthcare providers to quickly respond to any changes in oxygen levels. It provides immediate feedback without the need for arterial access, making it a safer and less invasive option for monitoring oxygen saturation in this vulnerable population.

Other methods, such as capnometry or arterial blood gas analysis, while useful in certain scenarios, do not offer the same level of continuous monitoring and can be more invasive. Capnometry primarily measures carbon dioxide levels and does not provide direct information on oxygen saturation. Arterial blood gas analysis gives a snapshot of oxygen and carbon dioxide levels but requires an arterial blood sample, which is invasive and not practical for continuous monitoring. Pulsed oximetry is thus the most suitable method for ongoing assessment of a neonate's oxygenation status.