An SpO2 value that requires immediate assessment in adults is closest to:

• A. 92%
• B. 90%
• C. 88%
• D. 94%

Answer: (C)

SpO2 measures how much oxygen is bound to hemoglobin in the blood. In adults, a normal range is about 95–100%. When the reading drops below 90%, it signals hypoxemia that needs attention; the lower the value, the more urgent the concern.

An SpO2 of 88% is a clear sign of significant hypoxemia and requires immediate assessment to identify and treat the cause and to ensure the patient’s airway and breathing are supported. The other values are below normal but not as severe: 94% is near normal, 92% shows mild hypoxemia, and 90% is concerning but would typically be evaluated promptly rather than as the most immediate emergency.