Any one of these:

1. PaO2 < 55%
2. PaO2 < 60% if signs of right heart failure, cor pulmonale, pulmonary hypertension or polycythemia
3. Hct > 56%
4. SpO2 <= 88% continuously for 6 minutes
5. SpO2 <= 87% on room air continuously for 1 minute during a 6 minute flat surface walk
6. Nocturnal oximetry (min 4 hours) with SpO2 <= 89% for > 20% of the night
7. Nocturnal oximetry (min 4 hours) with SpO2 <= 89% for > 10% of the night with evidence of Cor Pulmonale, Pulm HTN, heart failure or polycythemia
8. Pediatric patient with SpO2 < 93% continuously for 6 minutes or as assessed by pediatrician 

 

ABG criteria according to Eastern Health:

• PaO2 < 55mmHg         or  < 60 mmHg if pt has CHF
• SaO2 < 88%

 

Note:

• Indication is for continuous oxygen therapy at least 15 hours/day to be effective; target SpO2 >=90%
• Hypercarbia is NOT an indication

 

Contributing source:

Fraiser Health Authority Guidelines (BC)

 

 

Content on this page has not been checked for accuracy. The author's credentials have not been confirmed. Always use multiple peer-reviewed scholarly sources and good clinical judgement in your decision making.

The Compendium platform was created by David Kwinter, MD, CCFP(EM).