A PCT is caring for a patient receiving oxygen at 2L/min through a nasal cannula. The pulse oximetry reading is 91%. What should the PCT do?

A PCT is caring for a patient receiving oxygen at 2L/min through a nasal cannula. The pulse oximetry reading is 91%. What should the PCT do?

• A. Report the pulse oximetry level to a nurse
• B. Turn the pulse oximetry machine off
• C. Instruct the patient to take deep breaths
• D. Increase the patient's oxygen level to 3 L/min

Answer: (A)

The PCT should report the pulse oximetry level of 91% to a nurse because this reading falls below the typical normal range of 95% to 100%. While some patients with chronic respiratory conditions may have lower baseline oxygen saturation levels, a reading of 91% can indicate potential hypoxemia, which may require medical intervention. Reporting this reading ensures that the healthcare team can assess the patient’s oxygenation status and decide on the appropriate course of action, which may include increasing the oxygen flow, further evaluation, or additional treatments. Monitoring and reporting vital signs, such as oxygen saturation, is a fundamental responsibility for patient care technicians. This action helps ensure patient safety by facilitating timely clinical decisions based on accurate health data. The other options may not adequately address the immediate concern raised by the low oxygen saturation.

The PCT should report the pulse oximetry level of 91% to a nurse because this reading falls below the typical normal range of 95% to 100%. While some patients with chronic respiratory conditions may have lower baseline oxygen saturation levels, a reading of 91% can indicate potential hypoxemia, which may require medical intervention. Reporting this reading ensures that the healthcare team can assess the patient’s oxygenation status and decide on the appropriate course of action, which may include increasing the oxygen flow, further evaluation, or additional treatments.

Monitoring and reporting vital signs, such as oxygen saturation, is a fundamental responsibility for patient care technicians. This action helps ensure patient safety by facilitating timely clinical decisions based on accurate health data. The other options may not adequately address the immediate concern raised by the low oxygen saturation.