What SpO2 target range is commonly used for non-hypoxic patients on oxygen per ICEMA?

• A. 92-96%, with adjustments for COPD.
• B. Approximately 94-99%, with adjustments for COPD.
• C. 88-92%, with adjustments for COPD.
• D. 100-104%, with adjustments for COPD.

Answer: (B)

SpO2 targets guide how much oxygen to give. For most patients who aren’t hypoxic, the goal is to keep oxygen saturation in the mid-to-high 90s to ensure tissues get enough oxygen without causing oxygen toxicity. The commonly used range is about 94-99%. For patients with COPD or those at risk of CO2 retention, you tailor the target downward to avoid hypercapnia from too much oxygen, often toward a lower range depending on protocol (the key idea is to adjust downward rather than push into the high 90s). So the option that states approximately 94-99% with adjustments for COPD reflects both the general target and the need to individualize in COPD. The other ranges either risk hyperoxia or are inappropriate for a patient on supplemental oxygen who isn’t hypoxic.