What is the oxygen saturation range indicating severe hypoxemia?

• A. 60-79 mmHg
• B. 40-59 mmHg
• C. 75-89 mmHg
• D. Less than 75%

Answer: (D)

Severe hypoxemia is typically characterized by significantly low levels of oxygen in the blood, which can critically compromise the body's functions. In terms of oxygen saturation, a level less than 75% is indicative of severe hypoxemia, as it suggests that the body is not receiving adequate oxygen to support metabolic processes.

When oxygen saturation falls below this threshold, tissues and organs may begin to suffer from oxygen deprivation, leading to a variety of complications. This state can result from conditions such as acute respiratory distress syndrome, severe pneumonia, or significant obstructive airway diseases, where the lungs are unable to adequately oxygenate the blood.

The other provided ranges are not appropriate indicators of severe hypoxemia: the values above 75% generally reflect moderate to mild hypoxemia, where the body can often compensate better than in cases of severe hypoxemia. Thus, understanding these saturation levels is crucial for assessing respiratory function and guiding clinical interventions.