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respiratory emergency-medicine general-medicine

Oxygen Saturation Target Selection

Selects appropriate SpO2 target range based on clinical condition. Prevents both hypoxia and oxygen toxicity (hyperoxia). Based on BTS Oxygen Guidelines.

Used in: Asthma

Score interpretation

Standard adult — target SpO2 94-98%

→ Start O2 if SpO2 <94%; titrate device: nasal prongs 1-4L/min (SpO2 90-94%), simple mask 5-10L/min, non-rebreathe 15L/min for acute severe hypoxia; wean O2 once target maintained; ABG if uncertain

At-risk of CO2 retention — target SpO2 88-92%

→ Start O2 via 28% Venturi mask (2L/min); check ABG after 30-60 min; if PaCO2 rising or pH falling: NIV (CPAP or BiPAP); do not withhold O2 if severely hypoxic — aim 88-92% while arranging NIV

Resuscitation / peri-arrest — 100% O2

→ Use 100% O2 via NRB mask or BVM during resuscitation; switch to titrated O2 post-ROSC (target SpO2 94-98% or 88-92% if COPD); avoid prolonged hyperoxia post-ROSC (increased mortality)

Interpretation bands for the O2 Target SpO2. Apply clinical judgement and local guidance.

References

Related

Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.

Decision support only — verify against a current formulary, NICE, or your local guideline before clinical use.