What Is a Normal Pulse Ox?

A pulse ox, also referred to as pulse oximetry or oxygen saturation, is a noninvasive method of measuring oxygen in the blood.

Indications

• A pulse ox is performed to monitor how well respiratory treatments are working, to evaluate shortness of breath and to monitor oxygen status during periods of sedation.

The Test

• A sensor is placed on your fingertip, earlobe or the upper part of your ear. This device passes a beam of light through the tissue and measures the amount of light the tissue is able to absorb.

Normal Level

• According to the ninth edition of "Mosby's Diagnostic and Laboratory Test Reference," a normal pulse ox is greater than or equal to 95 percent. According to Mayo Clinic, a pulse ox below 90 percent is considered low.

Critical Level

• According to the ninth edition of "Mosby's Diagnostic and Laboratory Test Reference," a critical pulse ox level is below or equal to 75 percent.

Symptoms

• Symptoms of a low level of oxygen in the blood are shortness of breath at rest or with exertion, shortness of breath that wakes you up from sleep, fatigue and confusion. Contact your physician if you experience these symptoms.