What is the oxygen saturation goal for all other patients?

Maintaining an oxygen saturation level of 95% for all other patients is based on current guidelines and best practices in emergency medical services. This target ensures that patients receive adequate oxygenation without the risks associated with hyperoxia, which can occur at very high saturation levels. An oxygen saturation at or above 95% is typically considered optimal for a wide range of patients, as it indicates sufficient oxygen is present in the bloodstream to meet the body’s metabolic demands.

Monitoring oxygen saturation is crucial in pre-hospital care because it directly reflects the patient's respiratory and circulatory status. Achieving a target of 95% allows healthcare providers to effectively manage conditions such as respiratory distress, trauma, or other critical situations without over-oxygenating the patient, which could lead to complications.

Setting the goal lower than 95% may not provide enough oxygen to sustain vital organ function, while aiming too high can pose risks, especially in patients with certain lung conditions or other comorbidities. Thus, aiming for a saturation of 95% strikes a balance between ensuring adequate oxygenation and preventing potential harm from excessive oxygen levels.