What is the normal range for SpO2, and which interpretation is correct for reading 96% in a healthy adult?

What is the normal range for SpO2, and which interpretation is correct for reading 96% in a healthy adult?

• A. 90–92% — indicates acceptable oxygenation.
• B. 92–96% — borderline; investigation needed.
• C. 94–99% — normal; 96% is within normal range.
• D. 100% — typical in all adults.

Answer: (C)

SpO2 shows how much of the hemoglobin in arterial blood is saturated with oxygen. For a healthy adult, the normal range is about 94–99% (many sources also cite 95–100%). A reading of 96% is right in the normal range, indicating adequate oxygenation with no sign of hypoxemia. Readings well below 90% would signal insufficient oxygenation and need prompt assessment. While some readings at the lower end of normal (like 92–94%) may be considered borderline in certain clinical contexts, 96% in a healthy person is clearly within normal limits.

SpO2 shows how much of the hemoglobin in arterial blood is saturated with oxygen. For a healthy adult, the normal range is about 94–99% (many sources also cite 95–100%). A reading of 96% is right in the normal range, indicating adequate oxygenation with no sign of hypoxemia. Readings well below 90% would signal insufficient oxygenation and need prompt assessment. While some readings at the lower end of normal (like 92–94%) may be considered borderline in certain clinical contexts, 96% in a healthy person is clearly within normal limits.