Oxygen saturation

Definition

Oxygen saturation (SpO2) measures the percentage of hemoglobin in the blood that is saturated with oxygen. It is a critical indicator of respiratory and hematologic health, essential for maintaining cellular function and overall wellness.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Normal oxygen saturation levels typically range from 95% to 100%.
2. Low oxygen saturation can lead to hypoxemia, which may cause fatigue, confusion, and other systemic complications.
3. Nutrition plays a role in maintaining optimal oxygen transport through adequate iron intake, which is crucial for hemoglobin production.
4. Chronic low oxygen saturation can be indicative of underlying conditions such as anemia or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
5. Pulse oximeters are commonly used in clinical settings to non-invasively measure oxygen saturation levels.

Review Questions

• What is the normal range for oxygen saturation levels?
• How does nutrition influence oxygen transport in the body?
• Why is it important to monitor oxygen saturation in patients with hematologic disorders?

Related terms

Hemoglobin: A protein in red blood cells responsible for transporting oxygen from the lungs to tissues throughout the body.

Hypoxemia: A condition characterized by low levels of oxygen in the blood, often leading to symptoms like shortness of breath and fatigue.

Pulse Oximeter: A device that measures the oxygen saturation level in the blood using a non-invasive method involving light absorption through a peripheral site like a fingertip.