When should oxygen be administered to a patient?

Oxygen should be administered to a patient when their oxygen saturation levels, indicated by SPO2, fall below 94%. This threshold is commonly recognized in medical practice as it reflects a potential hypoxic state in the patient, meaning their blood oxygen levels are insufficient for adequate physiological function. Administering oxygen helps to ensure that tissues receive enough oxygen to meet metabolic demands and prevent further complications such as organ dysfunction or failure.

The need for oxygen does not solely depend on the patient's awareness or their request; it is based on concrete clinical indicators like oxygen saturation levels. It's also important to recognize that conscious patients who are breathing normally and who show no signs of distress do not necessarily require supplemental oxygen, especially if their SPO2 levels are adequate. In situations where adequate oxygenation is a concern, focusing on measurable data like SPO2 is paramount to guide treatment effectively.