Artificial acrylic finger nails may alter pulse oximetry measurement

Sonography of the Nail

“…Currently, sculptured nails with acrylic components are commonly used for cosmetic purposes. Problems in detecting pulse oximetry, onychodystrophy, and contact dermatitis are among the secondary effects of arti fi cial nails that have been reported in the literature [51][52][53] .…”

Safety and Efficacy of Nail Products

“…There have also been studies analyzing the effect of artificial nails on pulse oximetry readings, although results have been conflicting. A study by Hinkelbein et al [75] compared oxygen saturations on natural nails versus acrylic nails in both standard and sideways positions. It was found that with acrylic nails, there was a greater difference between the standard and sideways readings than with natural nails, suggesting a possible interference due to the artificial nails [75].…”

“…A study by Hinkelbein et al [75] compared oxygen saturations on natural nails versus acrylic nails in both standard and sideways positions. It was found that with acrylic nails, there was a greater difference between the standard and sideways readings than with natural nails, suggesting a possible interference due to the artificial nails [75]. On the contrary, three other studies concluded that oxygen saturation values obtained from fingers with natural nails versus acrylic nails were not statistically significantly different and it was unnecessary to remove acrylic nails for the purpose of pulse oximetry monitoring [26,76,77].…”

Pulse oximetry error in a patient with a Santa Ana haemoglobinopathy

“…Lighter colours are not likely to cause any issue 4. Acrylic nails may affect readings between −1% and +3% 8. Digital clubbing was reported to cause up to 8% lower readings, especially at reduced oxygen saturations level 4…”