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Oxygen saturation


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Oxygen saturation refers to the amount of oxygen being carried in the red blood cells, which load up with oxygen in the lungs and then transport it to the rest of the body. People who have medical conditions, such as lung disease, may not have enough oxygen in their red blood cells.

Oxygen saturation can be measured by a device called an oximeter. Oxygen saturation of less than 90% is a sign that the lungs and heart are not working well.

Credits

AuthorJeannette Curtis
AuthorCaroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
EditorKathleen M. Ariss, MS
EditorSusan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate EditorTracy Landauer
Associate EditorPat Truman, MATC
Primary Medical ReviewerPatrice Burgess, MD

- Family Medicine
Primary Medical ReviewerAdam Husney, MD

- Family Medicine
Primary Medical ReviewerKathleen Romito, MD

- Family Medicine
Last UpdatedMay 25, 2007

Last Updated: May 25, 2007
Author:
Jeannette Curtis

Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Medical Review:
Patrice Burgess, MD - Family Medicine

Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine

Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine


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