Final answer:
O2 readings less than 90% suggest hypoxemia, which is a decreased level of oxygen in the blood, and can lead to hypoxia if not addressed.
Step-by-step explanation:
When oxygen saturation (O2) readings are below 90%, this typically indicates a state of hypoxemia, or low levels of oxygen in the blood. Normal pulse oximeter readings should be between 95-100 percent, with readings less than this range suggesting that not enough oxygen is being carried to the tissues.
Various factors can cause hypoxemia, including respiratory disorders, circulatory issues, or being at high altitudes where the partial pressure of oxygen is low. Clinically, the 'percent sat' or percentage of oxygenated hemoglobin is vital for assessing a patient's oxygen level. When hypoxemia persists, it can lead to hypoxia, a condition where the body or a region of the body is deprived of adequate oxygen supply at the tissue level.