What is the incidence of arterial oxygen desaturation during postoperative transportation?
A significant proportion of patients experience arterial oxygen desaturation during postoperative transport, supporting the recommendation for supplementary oxygen during this period.
Arterial oxygen saturation in 132 patients was measured using a Biox IV oximeter with an ear probe, during transfer from theatre to recovery room following a variety of surgical procedures. Oxygen saturation decreased to 85% or less in 21.9% of patients and to 90% or less in 61.4%. No predictive factors were identified. It is recommended that supplementary oxygen be given to all patients in the immediate postoperative period, including the period of transit to the recovery room.
Meiklejohn et al. (Tue,) studied this question.