What level of oxygen saturation is considered hypoxia?

Hypoxia refers to a deficiency in the amount of oxygen reaching the tissues, and it is often assessed through oxygen saturation levels. A saturation level below 95% typically indicates that the body is not receiving adequate oxygen, which can lead to symptoms of hypoxia. Saturation levels of 94% and below are generally regarded as indicators of impaired oxygenation, requiring medical evaluation and possible intervention.

In clinical settings, saturation levels below this threshold can signal the need for supplemental oxygen or other treatments to ensure that the patient’s tissues are receiving sufficient oxygen. This understanding enhances the ability to respond to patients who may be experiencing respiratory distress or other medical conditions that compromise oxygen delivery.