In the BLS trauma protocols, what is the target oxygen saturation to maintain?

In the BLS trauma protocols, what is the target oxygen saturation to maintain?

• A. ≥95%
• B. ≥90%
• C. ≥92%
• D. ≥88%

Answer: (B)

In trauma care, the aim is to keep the patient well oxygenated without chasing extremely high oxygen levels. Maintaining an SpO2 of at least 90% provides a safety margin to prevent tissue hypoxia after injury while avoiding the potential downsides of hyperoxia. Pulse oximetry guides this target, so you use the available oxygen delivery devices (nasal cannula, nonrebreather, or bag‑valve mask) to reach or exceed that level. If someone has COPD or a risk of CO2 retention, you may adjust toward a slightly lower target (around 88–92%) to avoid ventilatory suppression. In short, keep SpO2 at or above 90% as the standard, escalating support as needed to reach that goal.

In trauma care, the aim is to keep the patient well oxygenated without chasing extremely high oxygen levels. Maintaining an SpO2 of at least 90% provides a safety margin to prevent tissue hypoxia after injury while avoiding the potential downsides of hyperoxia. Pulse oximetry guides this target, so you use the available oxygen delivery devices (nasal cannula, nonrebreather, or bag‑valve mask) to reach or exceed that level. If someone has COPD or a risk of CO2 retention, you may adjust toward a slightly lower target (around 88–92%) to avoid ventilatory suppression. In short, keep SpO2 at or above 90% as the standard, escalating support as needed to reach that goal.