If a patient on oxygen therapy has a low SpO2 reading, what is the first action the PN should take?

• A. Check sensor placement
• B. Increase oxygen flow
• C. Call the physician
• D. Move the patient to a different position

Answer: (A)

The first thing to check is the accuracy of the monitoring equipment. A low SpO2 can be caused by a faulty or poorly placed sensor, so verifying the sensor placement and contact is essential before changing oxygen therapy. Look at the probe site—make sure it’s on a suitable site (finger, toe, or earlobe) with secure contact, the cable is firmly connected, and nothing is interfering with the signal. Remove nail polish or artificial nails if using a finger probe, keep the extremity warm, and minimize movement that could cause artifacts. If repositioning or re-securing the sensor brings the reading back to the patient’s baseline, the issue was sensor-related. If the reading remains low after a proper sensor setup, then proceed to assess and adjust oxygen delivery and reassess the patient as per protocol.