At what percent oxygen saturation should supplemental oxygen be administered?

Supplemental oxygen should typically be administered when oxygen saturation falls below 94%. This threshold is established to ensure that patients maintain a sufficient level of oxygen in their bloodstream to prevent hypoxia and related complications. Oxygen saturation levels below 94% indicate that the body's tissues may not be receiving adequate oxygen, which can lead to deterioration in patient condition.

This range is widely recognized in clinical practice and guidelines as a point at which intervention is necessary to improve patient outcomes. Administering supplemental oxygen promptly when saturation dips below this level can help restore adequate oxygenation and potentially prevent serious complications, especially in patients with respiratory or cardiac conditions.

Maintaining saturation levels above 94% is generally considered a safe target for most patients, reflecting an adequate oxygen supply to vital organs and minimizing the risk of hypoxic injury.