Final answer:
The 1-minute pre-ductal SpO2 target is the oxygen saturation level measured within the first minute after birth, before the blood passes through the ductus arteriosus, with normal readings ranging from 95-100 percent. Low readings may indicate hypoxemia, necessitating medical attention to prevent hypoxia in the newborn.
Step-by-step explanation:
The 1-minute pre-ductal SpO2 target refers to the oxygen saturation level measured at a site that is before the blood has passed through the ductus arteriosus in a newborn, usually within the first minute after birth. A pulse oximeter is used to measure the percent saturation of hemoglobin with oxygen. The normal pulse oximeter readings range from 95-100 percent, indicating adequate oxygenation. However, this target can vary slightly based on the specific resuscitation guidelines or clinical scenario. For a newborn, lower percentages could reflect hypoxemia, which is low blood oxygen levels, and may warrant immediate medical intervention.
Oxygen saturation is crucial for assessing the need for intervention, especially in newborns and infants, as lower levels could lead to hypoxia—a condition where tissues do not receive enough oxygen. It is important to achieve a balance between adequate oxygenation without overexposure to oxygen, which can be harmful.