Simple heart test for newborns can save lives, says study

ALL newborn babies should be routinely screened for life-threatening heart defects using a simple and painless test, researchers have said.

The pulse oximetry test measures blood oxygen levels in newborns by means of a small skin sensor placed on the hands or feet.

A British study published yesterday showed it can identify babies with congenital heart defects who would otherwise be missed by doctors. Many of these infants would, under normal circumstances, go on to develop serious complications or die.