When would a patient typically require supplemental oxygen?

Supplemental oxygen is typically required when a patient shows oxygen saturation levels below 90%. This threshold is crucial because it indicates that the body may not be receiving adequate oxygen to function optimally, potentially leading to hypoxemia and its associated complications. In clinical practice, maintaining oxygen saturation levels above 90% is important for ensuring adequate tissue perfusion and oxygenation.

While a cough or physical therapy may necessitate monitoring oxygen levels, they do not inherently require supplemental oxygen unless associated with low oxygen saturation. Additionally, although individuals may experience changes in their oxygen requirements immediately after exercise, it is not a standard practice to administer supplemental oxygen without evidence of hypoxemia. Therefore, the correct identification of when to provide supplemental oxygen is primarily based on the assessment of oxygen saturation levels.