Recovery Scores Do Not Correlate with Postoperative Hypoxemia in Children

Abstract

The correlation between the degree of postanesthetic recovery (PAR) in children as measured by a modified Aldrete scoring system and oxygen saturation (SaO2) was studied. Eighty-one ASA PS I unpremedicated infants and children were studied. Oxygen saturation and PAR scores were recorded on arrival in the recovery room, then at 5-minute-intervals. Patients with SaO2 less than 95% were given supplemental oxygen. The proportion of children with SaO2 less than 95% and greater than or equal to 95% was not significantly different among patients with low PAR scores (less than or equal to 6) and those with high scores (7-10) in any age group. Similarly, the magnitude of SaO2 increase after oxygen supplementation did not seem to correlate with increasing wakefulness; i.e., higher PAR scores. It is concluded that children recovering from anesthesia can become hypoxemic in the recovery room. The degree of wakefulness as measured by a PAR score cannot be used to establish an end point for oxygen supplementation. Oxygen supplementation and/or SaO2 monitoring are recommended in all children recovering from anesthesia.