When managing a COPD patient at altitude, what SpO2 target range is commonly recommended?

• A. 95–100%
• B. 90–94%
• C. 93–97%
• D. 88–92%

Answer: (D)

When a COPD patient is at altitude, the goal is to keep oxygen delivery adequate without triggering CO2 retention. The commonly recommended SpO2 target range is 88–92%. This balance helps ensure tissues receive enough oxygen, while avoiding too high a oxygen level that can blunt the hypoxic drive and worsen ventilation–perfusion mismatch in chronic CO2 retainers. At altitude, where inspired oxygen is already lower, sticking to this range minimizes the risk of hypoxemia without pushing toward hyperoxia. If SpO2 drops below 88%, increase supplemental oxygen to bring it back into range; if it rises above 92%, reduce oxygen to avoid hyperoxia, unless other medical factors require a different target. Remember, these targets are guidelines and can be adjusted based on the patient’s symptoms, sleep, exertion, and comorbidities, but 88–92% is the commonly used range for COPD patients at altitude.