Certified Transport Registered Nurse Certification Practice Exam

When measuring oxygen saturation, what does a high SpO2 indicate?

1. Excessive carbon dioxide

2. Good oxygenation

3. Low blood pressure

4. High metabolic rate

The correct answer is: Good oxygenation

A high SpO2 level indicates good oxygenation of the blood. The SpO2 value reflects the percentage of hemoglobin binding sites in the bloodstream occupied by oxygen. Normal values typically range from 95% to 100%, signifying that the body's tissues are adequately receiving the oxygen they need for metabolic functions. When the SpO2 is high, it confirms that sufficient oxygen is available for cellular processes and indicates effective pulmonary function and oxygen transport. In contrast, a low SpO2 could suggest that the body is experiencing hypoxemia, which can lead to various health complications. While excessive carbon dioxide, low blood pressure, or a high metabolic rate may influence a patient's overall health, they do not directly correlate with a high oxygen saturation reading. Thus, the primary implication of elevated SpO2 remains its confirmation of effective oxygenation.