Final answer:
A pediatric SaO2 reading of <95% suggests hypoxemia, which means there is a decreased level of oxygen in the blood. It's crucial for children's growth and development to have proper oxygenation. Pulse oximeters are used to monitor this and prepare for any potential interventions like fluid replacement.
Step-by-step explanation:
A SaO2 in a pediatric patient of <95% is indicative of hypoxemia, which is a state of low blood oxygen. Normal pulse oximeter readings, which measure the percent saturation of hemoglobin with oxygen, range from 95-100 percent. Percentages lower than 95 suggest that the hemoglobin in the blood isn't fully saturated with oxygen, potentially due to insufficient hemoglobin or other respiratory issues.
It is important to monitor oxygen levels closely in pediatric patients, especially because children are still in the stages of growth and development. Insufficient hemoglobin can lead to poor appetite, delayed growth, and low activity levels. Sufficient oxygenation is crucial as it supports metabolic activity and overall health in pediatric patients.
Symptoms of hypoxemia can include pallor of the skin, inactivity, and poor appetite. In severe cases where there is risk of significant blood loss, preparations such as appropriate vascular access and fluids need to be in place to manage potential risks efficiently.