1. What is Oxygen Saturation?

Oxygen saturation (SpO₂) is a measure of the percentage of hemoglobin binding sites in the bloodstream occupied by oxygen. It indicates how well oxygen is being carried to different parts of the body.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the oxygen saturation formula:

Where:

• \( HbO_2 \) — Oxygenated hemoglobin concentration (g/dL)
• \( Total\ Hb \) — Total hemoglobin concentration (g/dL)

Explanation: The formula calculates the percentage of hemoglobin molecules that are saturated with oxygen relative to the total hemoglobin present in the blood.

3. Importance of Oxygen Saturation Measurement

Details: Oxygen saturation is a critical vital sign that helps assess respiratory function, monitor patients with respiratory conditions, and evaluate the effectiveness of oxygen therapy.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter oxygenated hemoglobin and total hemoglobin values in g/dL. Both values must be valid (greater than 0) and oxygenated hemoglobin cannot exceed total hemoglobin.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is normal oxygen saturation level?
A: Normal oxygen saturation levels are typically between 95-100%. Levels below 90% are considered low and may indicate hypoxemia.

Q2: How is oxygen saturation measured clinically?
A: Clinically, oxygen saturation is most commonly measured non-invasively using pulse oximetry, which uses light absorption to estimate SpO₂.

Q3: What factors can affect oxygen saturation readings?
A: Factors include altitude, lung function, circulation, anemia, nail polish, poor perfusion, and motion artifacts.

Q4: Why is oxygen saturation important in medical care?
A: It helps diagnose respiratory conditions, monitor critically ill patients, assess surgical recovery, and manage chronic lung diseases.

Q5: Can this calculation be used for clinical diagnosis?
A: While this formula provides the theoretical calculation, clinical diagnosis should always be based on proper medical assessment and validated measurement devices.