Pulse Oximetry (Arterial Oxygen Saturation) with Blood Pressure Measurement
This test measures how well oxygen is being carried in your blood and your blood pressure while you rest.
["Helps assess oxygen levels and blood pressure for overall health and potential issues like low oxygen or circulation problems."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 59407-7
- Short code
- SaO2 % Bld Preductal PulseOx
- Synonyms
- SaO2 % Bld Preductal PulseOx
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- whole-blood
- Container
- Lavender-top (EDTA)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 44
- Ref high
- 147
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- pulse-oximetry
- CPT
- 84075
- SNOMED
- 27550007
- 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
What This Test Measures
The test includes two key measurements: **oxygen saturation (SaO₂)** and **blood pressure**. Oxygen saturation tells your healthcare provider how much oxygen is bound to hemoglobin in your red blood cells. Blood pressure measures the force of blood pushing against your artery walls as your heart pumps blood through your body.
How the Test Works
For oxygen saturation, a small sensor is placed on your finger, toe, or ear lobe. It sends light through your skin to measure the oxygen levels in your blood. Blood pressure is measured using a cuff wrapped around your arm, which inflates to restrict blood flow and then releases to record pressure readings.
When You Might Need This Test
This test is often used to monitor oxygen levels in people with lung conditions (like COPD or asthma), heart problems, or those recovering from surgery. It may also be done during anesthesia, in the ICU, or to check for signs of low oxygen or circulation issues.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed for pulse oximetry. Blood pressure testing may require you to sit or lie down quietly for a few minutes before the cuff is applied. Avoid smoking or caffeine for 30 minutes before the test if possible, as these can affect blood pressure readings.
Reference range
Adult: 44-147 U/LN/A
No special preparation required. Avoid fatty meals before the test if possible.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Low oxygen saturation (below 90%) can indicate serious conditions like severe lung disease, heart failure, or problems with blood circulation. Abnormal blood pressure readings (either too high or too low) may signal underlying health issues such as high blood pressure (hypertension), low blood volume, or heart problems. Regular monitoring can help detect these issues early and guide treatment decisions.
Short name
Pulse Ox + BP
Frequently asked questions
How often is this test typically done?
What does a low oxygen saturation reading mean?
Can I eat or drink before 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