Certified EkG technician (CET) Practice Exam

What does a pulse oximetry reading of 88% indicate?

1. Normal oxygen saturation

2. Hypoxemia

3. Hyperoxia

4. Severe respiratory distress

The correct answer is: Hypoxemia

A pulse oximetry reading of 88% indicates hypoxemia, which refers to a lower-than-normal level of oxygen in the blood. Normal oxygen saturation typically ranges from 95% to 100%, so a reading of 88% suggests that the body's tissues may not be receiving adequate oxygen, which can lead to various health issues. Hypoxemia can result from several conditions, including respiratory disorders, cardiovascular issues, or environmental factors such as high altitude. It is crucial to recognize hypoxemia because it often requires immediate medical attention to address the underlying cause and restore appropriate oxygen levels in the bloodstream. While other conditions mentioned, like severe respiratory distress, can relate to low oxygen saturation, the specific measurement of 88% most directly correlates with hypoxemia rather than being classified as normal saturation, hyperoxia (excess oxygen), or severe respiratory distress on their own.