Final answer:
An oxygen saturation level of 85% in a client with pneumonia indicates severe hypoxemia, which is a critical condition that necessitates immediate medical intervention.
Step-by-step explanation:
A client with pneumonia showing an oxygen saturation of 85% is indicative of a critical clinical finding. This level of oxygen saturation suggests that the client is experiencing severe hypoxemia. Oxygen saturation, commonly referred to as "percent sat", measures how much of the hemoglobin in the red blood cells is carrying oxygen. Normal oxygen saturation levels range from 95 to 100 percent, and anything below 90 percent is considered hypoxemic.
Pneumonia can impair gas exchange in the lungs, leading to a reduced level of oxygen in the blood. The drop in saturation level requires immediate attention as severe hypoxemia can lead to tissue hypoxia and organ dysfunction if not promptly addressed with supplemental oxygen and appropriate medical treatment.