Test: Pulse Oximetry - SpO2

Video Link

Background/Purpose

SpO2, also known as oxygen saturation, is a measure of the amount of oxygen-carrying hemoglobin in the blood relative to the amount of hemoglobin not carrying oxygen. The body needs there to be a certain level of oxygen in the blood or it will not function as efficiently. In fact, very low levels of SpO2 can result in very serious symptoms. This condition is known as hypoxemia. There is a visible effect on the skin, known as cyanosis due to the blue (cyan) tint it takes on. Hypoxemia (low levels of oxygen in the blood) can turn into hypoxia (low levels of oxygen in the tissue). This progression and the difference between the two conditions is important to understand.

Procedure

To use a pulse oximeter, simply place it on the subject's finger. A percentage will be displayed on the screen. This percentage should be between 94 percent and 100 percent, which indicates a healthy level of hemoglobin carrying oxygen through the blood.
Performed: Unilaterally

Dialog

Pulse Oximetry reading on finger.

Criteria

• > 94%

Measurement

98 % O2

LOINC Code

59408-5

Scale/Grading

Pass/Fail