What SpO2 target is generally maintained for most adult patients in acute care with supplemental oxygen?

• A. 92-96%
• B. 90-95%
• C. 94-99%
• D. 96-100%

Answer: (C)

Oxygen delivery should be high enough to prevent hypoxemia but not so high that it causes harm from excessive oxygen. For most adults in acute care who are on supplemental oxygen, aiming for SpO2 in the high 90s—about 94–99%—balances these goals. Saturations in this range indicate adequate oxygenation without the risks that come with pushing toward 100% oxygen, such as oxygen toxicity and absorption atelectasis. Some patients with specific conditions, like COPD, may have different targets, but the general adult population is best served by keeping SpO2 around the mid to high 90s.