A term newborn is being monitored with pulse oximetry immediately after an uncomplicated vaginal delivery. The baby is breathing spontaneously with good tone and requires no intervention. What is the EXPECTED preductal SpO2 range at 5 minutes of life?
- A 65 to 70 percent
- B 80 to 85 percent ✓
- C 85 to 95 percent
- D 95 to 100 percent
Correct answer: B. 80 to 85 percent
Explanation
Normal transition follows a gradual rise in oxygenation: approximately 60 to 65 percent at 1 minute, 70 to 75 percent at 2 minutes, 80 to 85 percent at 5 minutes, and 85 to 95 percent by 10 minutes. The fetus is relatively hypoxaemic in utero, so saturation does not jump to adult levels instantly. Option C represents the 10-minute target, and option D would prompt unnecessary supplemental oxygen in the first minutes.
Reference: Cloherty and Stark's Manual of Neonatal Care, 8th ed.
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Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.