Background: Critical congenital heart disease (CCHD) is a major cause of neonatal morbidity and mortality. Early postnatal detection using pulse oximetry screening (POCC) improves timely intervention and outcomes.

Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of POCC in detecting CCHD among newborns at the Women’s Wellness and Research Center, Qatar, from 2017–2020.

Methods: A retrospective chart review of all live births between January 2017 and December 2020 was conducted. Data from screening registries and patient records were analysed using descriptive and comparative methods.

Results: Of 68,150 live births, 141 CCHD cases were identified: 74 (52%) antenatally, 33 (23%) clinically, and 34 (24%) via POCC. Among POCC cases, 8 were true positives and 26 false positives (positive predictive value 23.5%). PPHN was the most common lesion detected.

Conclusion: POCC complements antenatal and clinical diagnosis, identifying silent but critical cases. Universal screening should remain standard practice to ensure early detection and improved outcomes.

Dr Nuha Nimeri completed her MBBS in 1997 and her MD in Pediatrics and Child Health at the University of Khartoum, Sudan. She currently serves as a consultant in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at the Women's Wellness and Research Centre in Qatar. Additionally, she holds an assistant professorship at Weill Cornell Medical College in Qatar, reflecting her commitment to both clinical and academic excellence. In 2011, Dr Nimeri enhanced her expertise in neonatology through a Neonatal-Perinatal fellowship at the Hamad Medical Corporation. Dr Nimeri's research includes numerous publications, book chapters, and awards. Her areas of interest span neonatal and perinatal mortality and morbidity, as well as other significant aspects of neonatology. She has a particular interest in functional echocardiography and neonatal hemodynamics, and is deeply invested in studying the long-term neurodevelopmental outcomes of prematurity and in improving neuroprotection. Beyond her research activities, Dr Nimeri is passionate about quality improvement projects in neonatal care. Her aim is to continually enhance the level of care provided to newborn babies, demonstrating her dedication to advancing both neonatology and patient care standards.