- On how much oxygen? What is his usual target — 94–98% or 88–92%?
- RR, HR, BP, temp, consciousness?
- Why was he admitted? Any COPD, heart failure, recent surgery or immobility?
- Is the probe reading properly — good trace, warm hands?
Do now
- See them: sit up, A–E
- Oxygen to the right target
- ABG, CXR, ECG; bloods
- Look for the cause: chest, fluid, clot, airway
Key doses
- Target SpO₂ 94–98% (88–92% if hypercapnia risk)
- Treatment depends on the cause — see the linked topics
Typical adult doses — always check the BNF and your local guideline.
Call your senior if
- Needs > 40% O₂ or not reaching target
- RR > 25, tiring, drowsy or rising CO₂
- Suspected PE, pneumothorax or pulmonary oedema
Think of
- Pneumonia / aspiration
- Pulmonary oedema
- PE
- COPD / asthma
- Pneumothorax
- Over-sedation
Go deeper
The full walkthroughs behind this call.