Description: The saturation level refers to the percentage of hemoglobin in the blood that is saturated with oxygen. This indicator is crucial for assessing the efficiency of the respiratory system and the body’s ability to transport oxygen to tissues. Hemoglobin, a protein found in red blood cells, binds to oxygen in the lungs and releases it in the body’s tissues. A normal saturation level ranges from 95% to 100%, indicating that most hemoglobin is occupied by oxygen. Levels below 90% can be concerning, as they may indicate hypoxemia, a condition characterized by a deficiency of oxygen in the blood. Saturation level measurement is commonly performed using a pulse oximeter, a non-invasive device that uses light to estimate the amount of oxygen in the blood. This parameter is fundamental in clinical settings, especially in the management of respiratory diseases, anesthesia, and intensive care, where constant monitoring of oxygenation is vital for patient care.
History: The concept of oxygen saturation in the blood began to be studied in the 19th century, but it was in the 1940s that the first methods for accurately measuring it were developed. The introduction of the pulse oximeter in the 1970s revolutionized the way oxygenation was monitored, allowing for quick and non-invasive measurements. This advancement was crucial in the medical field, especially in anesthesia and intensive care, where constant monitoring of oxygen levels is essential.
Uses: The saturation level is primarily used in clinical settings to assess patients’ respiratory function. It is essential in anesthesia, where constant monitoring is required during surgical procedures. It is also used in the management of respiratory diseases such as asthma and COPD, as well as in emergency situations to assess the need for oxygen therapy.
Examples: An example of the use of saturation level is in patients with COVID-19, where it is monitored to detect signs of respiratory deterioration. Another example is in the care of patients with heart diseases, where oxygenation is assessed to adjust treatments and therapies.
