What can increase oxygen saturation (SaO2) in patients?

Increasing supplemental oxygen (FiO2) is a fundamental method to enhance oxygen saturation (SaO2) in patients, especially those experiencing respiratory distress or low oxygen levels. When additional oxygen is provided, it increases the available oxygen in the lungs, thereby allowing more oxygen to diffuse into the bloodstream and appropriately saturate hemoglobin.

Supplemental oxygen therapy raises the fraction of inspired oxygen, which can significantly improve the oxygen content in the arterial blood. This is particularly beneficial in conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pneumonia, or acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), where oxygen levels may be compromised.

The other conditions listed do not contribute to an increase in oxygen saturation. Fluid depletion can lead to reduced blood volume and potentially decreased perfusion, impacting the delivery of oxygen to tissues. Hypoventilation reduces the rate and depth of breathing, which can decrease oxygen intake and worsen oxygenation. Cardiogenic shock is a state of inadequate blood flow due to heart failure, which can lead to decreased oxygen delivery to tissues rather than improving oxygenation. Thus, increasing supplemental oxygen stands out as the most effective means of enhancing SaO2.