Oxyhemoglobin in Preductal Blood (Oxygen Saturation)
This test measures how much oxygen is bound to hemoglobin in blood taken from an artery before it passes through the lungs. It helps assess oxygen levels in blood before oxygenation occurs, often used in newborns or specific clinical contexts.
["Evaluates oxygen delivery before lung oxygenation in critical situations."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 19953-9
- Short code
- OxyHgb % Bld Preductal
- Synonyms
- OxyHgb % Bld Preductal
- Category
- hematology
- Sample
- whole-blood
- Container
- Lavender-top (EDTA)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 12
- Ref high
- 17.5
- Critical range
- 7 N/A – 20 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 85018
- SNOMED
- 900000000000003004
- Specimen volume
- 3 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why Is This Test Done?
Your healthcare provider may order this test to check for conditions affecting oxygen transfer before the blood reaches the lungs, such as in newborns with potential respiratory issues or in adults with suspected vascular or lung abnormalities before oxygenation occurs.
Who Might Need This Test?
Commonly performed in newborns during the first hours of life to monitor oxygenation before the lungs fully develop, or in adults with suspected preductal vascular conditions (e.g., before certain surgeries or diagnostic procedures).
What Does the Test Involve?
A small sample of blood is taken from an artery (often near the umbilical cord in newborns or a radial artery in adults) and analyzed to measure oxygen saturation levels. The test uses a simple, painless procedure with minimal risk.
How Are Results Interpreted?
Results are typically expressed as a percentage (e.g., 95% oxygen saturation). Lower than expected levels may indicate problems with oxygen delivery before lung function, while higher levels may suggest unusual blood flow patterns.
Reference range
Adult males: 13.5-17.5 g/dL; Females: 12.0-16.0 g/dLN/A
No special preparation usually required. Stay well hydrated. Inform your healthcare provider of all medications and supplements you are taking.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Preductal Oxygen Saturation
Frequently asked questions
What does a preductal oxygen saturation test measure?
Is this test painful?
When might I need this test?
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