Final answer:
A pulse oximetry reading below 90% should be reported to the HCP as it indicates potential hypoxemia, which can lead to tissue hypoxia.
Step-by-step explanation:
A pulse oximetry reading below 90% should be reported to the healthcare provider (HCP). Pulse oximeters measure the percent saturation of hemoglobin with oxygen, which is an indicator of hypoxemia or low blood oxygen levels. Normal readings are typically within the 95-100% range, and values below this can be concerning for hypoxemia. In the medical setting, an alert is often triggered when readings fall below 90%, as this could indicate that the patient is not receiving enough oxygen, potentially leading to hypoxia and tissue damage.