What should be monitored continuously in a patient receiving oxygen therapy?

Monitoring SpO2 levels continuously in a patient receiving oxygen therapy is crucial because it provides real-time feedback on the adequacy of oxygenation. Pulse oximetry, which measures the saturation of oxygen in the blood, helps assess whether the patient is receiving enough oxygen to meet their metabolic needs.

In many clinical situations, especially with patients who have respiratory distress or those suffering from conditions that impact oxygen transport (such as COPD, pneumonia, or COVID-19), maintaining an appropriate oxygen saturation is essential for ensuring adequate tissue perfusion and preventing hypoxia. Continuous monitoring allows healthcare providers to make timely adjustments to oxygen delivery based on the patient's response, thus ensuring optimal care.

While heart rate, blood pressure, and temperature are important vital signs in the overall assessment of a patient, they do not directly indicate the effectiveness of oxygen therapy in the same way that SpO2 levels do. Heart rate may vary due to many factors unrelated to oxygenation, and blood pressure changes may not correlate directly with oxygen status. Likewise, temperature is indicative of infection or inflammation but does not provide specific information about oxygen saturation. By focusing on SpO2 levels, healthcare providers can better manage oxygen therapy and respond proactively to any changes in the patient’s respiratory status.