Objective:

To assess knowledge and implementation of the neonatal screening for critical congenital heart diseases by means of a pulse oximetry between several physicians in the pediatric ward.

Methods:

Descriptive and analytical study with a survey about knowledge, capability and implementation of screening test carried out by physicians assisting newborns in Cali, Colombia. Associations between professional training, capability and knowledge of the test were established. Nonparametric tests were conducted validating alpha error <5%.

Results:

100 survey respondents: 21 general or family practitioners, 50 pediatricians, 21 residents and 8 neonatologists. 62% knew the screening test, 19% had received training, 24% conducted it on all newborns prior to admission, the pediatrician group being significantly higher. 25% know all correct answers for the test and significant differences can only be found between the pediatric residents and other physicians.

Conclusions:

General knowledge of the need to carry out early detection of critical congenital heart diseases exists amongst physicians, though there is no proper training about pathophysiological aspects that can be assessed with a pulse oximetry during the first 24 hours of life.

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