Oxygen Saturation in Arterial Blood (via Pulse Oximetry) – **Pulse Oximetry Oxygen Saturation (SpO₂) Probe Confirmation**
This test measures how much oxygen is bound to your red blood cells as they travel through your blood vessels. It’s a quick, non-invasive way to check oxygen levels in your blood, often used during routine check-ups or in response to symptoms like shortness of breath.
["A pulse oximeter is a small device clipped to your finger or ear to monitor oxygen levels safely and conveniently."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 96322-3
- Short code
- K oxytoca DNA L resp NAA+non-prb-NCncRng
- Synonyms
- K oxytoca DNA L resp NAA+non-prb-NCncRng
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- non-probe-amp-tar
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
How This Test Works
A small sensor placed on your finger or ear emits light that passes through your blood. The sensor detects the amount of oxygen bound to hemoglobin (the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen). This measurement is expressed as a percentage, called oxygen saturation (SpO₂).
What to Expect During the Test
You’ll likely have a small clip or sensor applied to your finger, toe, or ear. The test is painless and takes only a few minutes. You may be asked to keep your hand still or move your finger slightly to ensure accurate readings.
Why Your Doctor Might Order This Test
Doctors use pulse oximetry to monitor oxygen levels in patients with conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), heart problems, or during anesthesia. It’s also useful for checking oxygen levels in newborns or during sleep studies.
Common Uses and Conditions
This test is commonly used to screen for low oxygen levels, assess breathing difficulties, evaluate sleep apnea, or monitor patients with respiratory infections. It can also help track oxygen therapy effectiveness.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Low oxygen saturation (SpO₂ below 90%) can indicate serious health issues, such as severe lung disease, heart failure, or breathing problems. While pulse oximetry is a quick and reliable tool, it may not detect carbon monoxide poisoning or certain blood disorders. Always follow up with your healthcare provider if you notice persistent symptoms like dizziness, rapid heartbeat, or shortness of breath.
Short name
SpO₂ (Pulse Oximetry)
Frequently asked questions
What Does a Low or High Oxygen Saturation Mean?
Does This Test Require Special Preparation?
How Often Can This Test Be Done?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy