by Lorraine Anyango

The Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital (JOOTRH) newborn unit received a critical boost today thanks to a timely donation from Child Health and Mortality Prevention Surveillance (CHAMPS). Eight pulse oximeters, valued at Ksh 224,000, were presented to the unit, enhancing their ability to monitor the oxygen levels of newborns.

This donation comes at a pivotal moment for JOOTRH as they prepare to launch a groundbreaking program: Immediate Kangaroo Mother Care (IKMC). This initiative, the first of its kind in Kenya, will see KMC begin within two hours of birth, even in operating theaters. IKMC is proven to improve survival rates for premature babies and foster stronger bonds between parents and their newborns.

The donation directly addresses a concern raised by Dr. Moureen, Muchela, the lead doctor at the newborn unit.Dr. Muchela highlighted the challenge of meeting Ministry of Health guidelines for monitoring oxygen levels in newborns. Data showed a concerning drop in December, with only 30% of monitoring executed – well below the required 100%.

“The use of oximeters is crucial for managing newborns in both nurseries and intensive care units,” explains Dr. Muchela . “This generous donation from CHAMPS will significantly contribute to reducing newborn mortality at JOOTRH, aligning perfectly with their overall mission.”

While receiving the donation from Ms. Janet Agaya of CHAMPS, Dr. Richard Lesiyampe, CEO of JOOTRH, expressed his gratitude for the ongoing partnership. “CHAMPS’ support plays a vital role in improving clinical outcomes for our youngest patients,” he said.

Oximeter monitoring is a non-invasive way to monitor a patient’s blood oxygen saturation (SpO2). This is a crucial measurement, especially for newborns, children with respiratory problems, and people undergoing surgery or anesthesia.

Pulse oximeters are not used for definitive diagnosis on their own. However, they can be a valuable tool to:

• Identify potential oxygen deficiency (hypoxemia): A low SpO2 reading can indicate a problem with oxygen delivery to the tissues. This can be due to various issues like respiratory infections, asthma, or heart problems.
• Monitor treatment effectiveness: If a patient is receiving oxygen therapy, oximeters can help track whether the treatment is raising their oxygen levels effectively.
• Guide further diagnostic procedures: A low reading might prompt further tests like chest X-rays or blood gas analysis to pinpoint the cause of the oxygen deficiency.

Oximeters clip onto a fingertip, earlobe, or forehead and use light waves to estimate the percentage of hemoglobin (red blood cells) carrying oxygen. This percentage is your SpO2 reading.

Normal SpO2 levels for adults are typically between 95% and 100%. Readings below 90% may indicate a need for supplemental oxygen therapy.