What does a pulse oximeter reading below 95% indicate?

A pulse oximeter measures the oxygen saturation level in a person's blood. When a reading falls below 95%, it generally suggests that the oxygen saturation is below the normal range, which is typically between 95% and 100% for healthy individuals. This lower reading indicates that the patient may not be receiving adequate oxygenation, which could be a sign of respiratory distress or other medical issues.

In such cases, it is essential for healthcare providers to assess the patient's condition further to determine the underlying cause and whether medical intervention is necessary. A reading below 95% does not typically indicate that a patient is healthy or stable, nor does it suggest that they are recovering well; in fact, it usually raises concern and warrants close monitoring or further evaluation. Therefore, the indication that the patient may require medical attention is the most appropriate conclusion to draw from a reading below this threshold.