Comparing different pulse oximeters with arterial blood gas measurements

OxyGap : Comparison Between Different Pulse Oximeter and With the Arterial Blood

Observational Laval University · NCT04772183

This study is testing how accurately different pulse oximeters measure oxygen levels in intensive care patients receiving oxygen therapy compared to standard blood tests.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment300 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorLaval University Academic / other
Locations2 sites (Montreal, Quebec and 1 other locations)
Trial IDNCT04772183 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study evaluates the accuracy of various pulse oximeters (Nonin, Masimo, Philips, Nellcor) in measuring oxygen saturation in intensive care patients undergoing oxygen therapy. By comparing the pulse oximeter readings (SpO2) with the reference arterial blood gas measurements (SaO2), the study aims to identify the precision and biases of these devices. The findings will help refine recommendations for optimal oxygenation practices, addressing the variability in oximeter performance that can impact patient care.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adults aged 18 and older who are admitted to the Intensive Care Unit and have an arterial catheter already installed.

Not a fit: Patients who may not benefit from this study include those with no signal detected by the oximeter, pigmented nails or nail polish, methemoglobinemia, or those in isolation due to multi-resistant bacteria or COVID-19.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved oxygen therapy practices, enhancing patient safety and outcomes in intensive care settings.

How similar studies have performed: While the approach of comparing different pulse oximeters is common, this specific study's focus on precision and systematic biases in clinical practice is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* ≥ 18 years old
* Patients admitted to the Intensive Care Unit
* Artery catheter already installed

Exclusion Criteria:

* No signal with the oximeter
* Pigmented nails or nail polish
* Methemoglobinemia
* Patient in isolation (multi-resistant bacteria, C-Difficile, COVID-19…)
* Prone position

Where this trial is running

Montreal, Quebec and 1 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Respiratory FailureHypoxemiaHyperoxemia
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.