At what oxygen saturation level should supplemental oxygen be considered?

Supplemental oxygen should be considered when oxygen saturation levels fall below 90%. This threshold is significant because it indicates a potential risk of hypoxemia, which can lead to various complications if not addressed. Oxygen saturation levels below 90% imply that the body may not be receiving sufficient oxygen to sustain normal physiological function, which can affect organ performance and overall health.

In clinical practice, maintaining an oxygen saturation above 90% is often a target set for patients, especially those with underlying respiratory conditions or other diseases that impair oxygen exchange. Providing supplemental oxygen at this level can enhance oxygen delivery to tissues, improving patient outcomes and preventing further deterioration.

Higher saturation levels, such as 95% or 98%, are generally considered acceptable for healthy individuals, and levels above these do not usually necessitate supplemental oxygen unless specific medical conditions warrant such intervention. Therefore, the decision to administer supplemental oxygen is typically based on the threshold of 90% to effectively manage and mitigate risks associated with inadequate oxygenation.