SpO2 Above Target

If the SpO2 is in or above the target range

Titrate oxygen therapy down slowly when the patient is stable and maintaining SpO2 in the target range.

Suddenly discontinuing oxygen can cause rebound hypoxaemia which can be life threatening.

If the patient is using a face mask or a venturi device consider switching to a nasal cannula.

When the patient can maintain oxygen saturations in the target range on room air discontinue oxygen therapy but leave the prescription in place in case of deterioration.

SpO2 should be monitored for 5 minutes after stopping the oxygen and, if it remains stable, rechecked after 1 hour.

! Make sure you review patients after changing any part of oxygen therapy.